Compositions and methods useful for treating diseases

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates to a chemotherapeutic cancer treatment in which compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ (referred to as a group as BH3Is) are administered to a mammal for the treatment of B-cell Lymphoma or other hematopoietic cancers, including diseases associated with MCL-1. In another aspect, the invention provides a method for treating particular types of hematopoietic cancers, such as B-cell lymphoma, using a combination of one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of compounds or Formula Ia, Ib, Ic, or II in combination with other therapies, for example, a class of therapeutics known as 26S proteosome inhibitors, such as, for example, Bortezomib. In another aspect the present invention relates to autoimmune treatment with pharmaceutical compositions comprising one or more compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′. In another aspect, this invention relates to methods for identifying compounds, for example, compounds of the BH3 mimic class, that have unique in vitro properties that predict in vivo efficacy against B-cell lymphoma tumors and other cancers as well as autoimmune disease.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of Provisional Application 61/425,909, filed Dec. 22, 2010, which is incorporated herein in its entirety for all purposes.

GOVERNMENT SUPPORT

Research leading to this invention was in part funded by SBIR grant number R44 CA135915-02 from the National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Md.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates generally to compositions and methods for treating cancer and autoimmune diseases. This cancer may be hematological malignancies, such as Multiple Myeloma, B-cell lymphoma, and more specifically, the invention relates to treating autoimmune diseases and cancers, including hematological malignancies, with one or more compounds that inhibit the Bcl-2 family of protein Mcl-1 as well as other of the Bcl-2 family proteins. In addition, this invention relates to methods for determining selectivity of these newly classified “BH3 mimic” compounds to predict efficacy in treating hematological and other malignancies involving Mcl-1. All patents, patent applications, and publications cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.

BACKGROUND

Currently the prevalence of Multiple Myeloma (MM) is 63,000 people in the US with about 13,000 new cases per year. There are 360,000 cases of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) in the United States and 550,000 worldwide, with about 56,000 cases diagnosed per annum and 23,000 deaths per annum (American Cancer Society, The SEER Cancer Statistics Review (CSR) web site, http://seer.cancer.gov/csr/1975_(—)2002/). Twenty percent of these do not respond to current therapy. In terms of all NHL cases, 60% are aggressive, of which 50% do not respond to front line therapy. In addition, chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is the most common form of adult leukemia in the U.S. and in most of Western Europe. There are approximately 70,000 cases of CLL in the U.S., with 10,000 new cases diagnosed per annum (www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/types/leukemia). CLL patients have a poor survival prognosis with a five-year survival rate of 46%.

Mcl-1 is a key regulator of lymphoid cancers including multiple myeloma (MM) (Zhang B et al. (2002), Blood 99: 1885-1893), non-Hodgkin's lymphomas (Cho-Vega J H et. al (2004) Hum. Pathol. 35(9): 1095-100) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) (Michaels J, et al. (2004), Oncogene 23: 4818-4827). Additionally, treatment of myeloma cells with the proteosome inhibitor Bortezomib (Velcade) has been shown to cause elevated Mcl-1 expression (Nencioni A, et al. (2005) Blood; 105(8):3255-62) and this is seen in some myeloma patients (Podar K et al. (2008) Oncogene 27(6):721-31). It is proposed that an Mcl-1 inhibitor would enhance the efficacy of Velcade treatment in MM patients.

Though Rituxan, which targets B-cell surface protein CD-20, has proven to be a valuable front line therapeutic for many NHL and CLL patients, resistance to this drug has been shown to correlate with elevated expression of B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) or Myeloid Cell factor-1 (Mcl-1) proteins (Hanada et al. (1993) Blood 82: 1820-28; Bannerji et al. (2003) J. Clin. Oncol. 21(8): 1466-71). Notably, there is a high correlation of elevated Mcl-1 with non-responsiveness to chemotherapies in B-cells from CLL patients. (Kitada et al. (2002) Oncogene 21: 3459-74). Rituxan-resistant CLL cells also have a higher Mcl-1/Bax ratio than normal cells, while there is no significant correlation of the Bcl-2/Bax ratio. (Bannerji et al. (2003) supra).

Moreover, approximately 30% of diffuse large cell lymphomas (DLCLs) have increased Bcl-2 expression levels. This correlates with poor patient response to treatment with combination chemotherapy (Mounier et al. (2003) Blood 101: 4279-84). In follicular non-Hodgkin's lymphomas and plasma cell myeloma, Mcl-1 expression positively correlates with increasing grade of the disease (Cho-Vega et al. (2004) Hum. Pathol. 35(9): 1095-100).

The value of Bcl-2 as a target in anti-tumor therapy has been well established. The literature also reports on Mcl-1 as a target in treating NHL, CLL, and acute mylogenous leukemia (AML) (Derenne et al. (2002) Blood, 100: 194-99; Kitada et al. (2004) J. Nat. Canc. Inst. 96: 642-43; Petlickovski et al. (2005) Blood 105: 4820-28). Researchers have recognized that proteins in the Bcl-2 family regulate apoptosis and are key effectors of tumorigenesis (Reed (2002) Nat Rev. Drug Discov. 1(2): 111-21). Bcl-2 promotes cell survival and normal cell growth and is expressed in many types of cells including lymphocytes, neurons and self-renewing cells, such as basal epithelial cells and hematopoietic progenitor cells in the bone marrow.

In many cancers, anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 proteins, such as Bcl-2 and Mcl-1, unfortunately block the sensitivity of tumor cells to cytostatic or apoptosis inducing drugs. These proteins are therefore targets for anti-tumor therapy. A recently described class of small molecules that inhibit Bcl-2 family proteins are the BH3 mimetic compounds (Nat. Reviews Drug Discovery vol 4: 399-409). These compounds function by inhibiting BH3 mediated protein/protein interactions among the Bcl-2 family proteins. Several studies have described BH3 mimetic small molecules that function as Bcl-2 inhibitors by blocking BH3 binding (reviewed in Reed. et al. (2005) Blood 106: 408-418). Compounds with BH3 mimic function include HA-14-1 (Wang et al. (2000) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 97: 7124-9), Antimycin-A (Tzung et al. (2001) Nat. Cell. Biol. 3: 183-191), BH3I-1 and BH3I-2 (Degterev et al. (2001) Nat. Cell. Biol. 3: 173-82), and seven un-named compounds (Enyedy et al. (2001) J. Med Chem 44: 4313-24), as well as a series of terphenyl derivatives (Kutzki et al. (2002) J. Am. Chem. Soc. 124: 11838-9), and two new classes of molecules (Rosenberg et al. (2004) Anal. Biochem. (2004) 328: 131-8). More recently, a BH3 mimic compound has been tested in a mouse tumor model (Oltersdorf et al. (2005) Nature 435(7042): 677-81).

The promise for using BH3 mimetic compounds as anti-tumor therapeutics has been recognized, and is described in the literature; however, to date there are no conclusive reports from the clinic on the efficacy of any anti-cancer drugs with this mode of action. While pharmacological manipulation of the Bcl-2 family proteins is a feasible approach to achieving therapeutic benefit for cancer patients, the complexity of the network of proteins that comprise this family makes this prospect difficult. Therefore, with the large unmet medical need for treating hematological malignancies, new approaches to assessing and utilizing the detailed activity of the BH3 mimic molecules will have value in developing this class of therapeutics.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to compositions and methods useful for treating cancer and autoimmune diseases.

There is provided in accordance with one aspect of the invention, compounds of Formula Ia:

Ar₁-L₁-Ar₂-L₂-Ar₃-L₃-Ar₄  Formula Ia

and stereoisomers, tautomers, solvates, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts, thereof, wherein:

Ar₁, Ar₂, Ar₃, and Ar₄ are each independently null, C₆₋₁₀ aryl, C₆₋₁₀ heteroaryl, C₅₋₁₀ membered heterocycle, C₅-C₁₀ cycloalkyl, C₅-C₁₀ heterocycle, C₁-C₆ straight or branched alkyl, each of which is optionally substituted with one or more substituents R^(s);

L₁, L₂, and L₃ are each independently a covalent bond, or a saturated or unsaturated C₁₋₃ carbon chain, or a branched or unbranched C₁₋₃ carbon chain, wherein one or more methylene groups are optionally independently replaced by heteroatoms chosen from O, NR and S(O)_(m); and wherein L is optionally substituted with 0-2 oxo groups and one or more C₁₋₄ branched or unbranched alkyl optionally substituted by one or more F, Cl, Br, I, cyano, —C(O)R, C(O)NR₂, C(O)OR, OR, NR₂, SiR₃, —S(O)_(m)R,

each R is independently hydrogen, or linear or cyclic C₁₋₆ alkyl, branched or unbranched C₁₋₆ alkyl, or saturated or unsaturate C₁₋₆ alkyl;

each m is independently 0, 1 or 2;

each R^(s) is independently F, Cl, Br, I, cyano, —C(O)R, C(O)NR₂, C(O)OR, OR, NR₂, SiR₃, —S(O)_(m)R, substituted or unsubstituted straight or branched C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, C₂₋₁₀ alkenyl, or C₂₋₁₀ alkynyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃₋₁₀ cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₅₋₈ cycloalkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₇₋₂₀ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted saturated or unsaturated 3-11 member heterocyclyl or heterocyclylalkyl containing 1, 2, 3, or 4 heteroatoms selected independently from N, O, S(O)_(m);

provided that the compound of Formula Ia is not 2,2′-(3,3′-dimethoxybiphenyl-4,4′-diyl)bis(azanediyl)dibenzoic acid or N4,N4′-bis(1-iminoisoindolin-5-yl)biphenyl-4,4′-diamine.

In another aspect, there is provided compounds of Formula Ib:

and stereoisomers, tautomers, solvates, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts, thereof, wherein:

Ar₁ and Ar₄ are each independently null, C₆₋₁₀ aryl, C₆₋₁₀ heteroaryl, C₅₋₁₀ heterocycle, C₅-C₁₀ cycloalkyl, C₅-C₁₀ heterocycle, each of which is optionally substituted with one or more substituents R¹, R², R³, R⁴, R⁵, R⁶, R⁷, and R⁸;

L₁ and L₃ are each independently a covalent bond, or a saturated or unsaturated C₁₋₃ carbon chain, or a branched or unbranched C₁₋₃ carbon chain, wherein one or more methylene groups are optionally independently replaced by O, NR or S(O)_(m); and wherein L₁ and L₃ are optionally substituted with 0-2 oxo groups and one or more C₁₋₄ branched or unbranched alkyl optionally substituted by one or more F, Cl, Br, I, cyano, —C(O)R, C(O)NR₂, C(O)OR, OR, NR₂, SiR₃, —S(O)_(m)R,

each R is independently hydrogen, or linear or cyclic C₁₋₆ alkyl, branched or unbranched C₁₋₆ alkyl, or saturated or unsaturate C₁₋₆ alkyl;

each m is independently 0, 1 or 2;

each R¹, R², R³, R⁴, R⁵, R⁶, R⁷, and R⁸ is independently F, Cl, Br, I, cyano, —C(O)R, C(O)NR₂, C(O)OR, OR, NR₂, SiR₃, —S(O)_(m)R, substituted or unsubstituted straight or branched C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, C₂₋₁₀ alkenyl, or C₂₋₁₀ alkynyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃₋₁₀ cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₅₋₈ cycloalkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₇₋₂₀ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted saturated or unsaturated 3-11 member heterocyclyl or heterocyclylalkyl, containing 1, 2, 3, or 4 heteroatoms selected independently from N, O, S(O)_(m);

provided that the compound of Formula Ib is not 2,2′-(3,3′-dimethoxybiphenyl-4,4′-diyl)bis(azanediyl)dibenzoic acid, and Ar₁ and Ar₄ are not simultaneoulsy isoindolin-1-imine.

In another apsect, there is provided compounds of Formula Ic:

and stereoisomers, tautomers, solvates, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts, thereof, wherein:

each X is independently selected from N or C to form a phenyl, pyridyl, pyrazinyl, pyrimidyl, triazinyl, or tetrazinyl moiety;

L₁ and L₃ are each independently a covalent bond, or a saturated or unsaturated C₁₋₃ carbon chain, or a branched or unbranched C₁₋₃ carbon chain, wherein one or more methylene groups are optionally independently replaced by O, NR or S(O)_(m); and wherein L₁ and L₃ are optionally substituted with 0-2 oxo groups and one or more C₁₋₄ branched or unbranched alkyl optionally substituted by one or more F, Cl, Br, I, cyano, —C(O)R, C(O)NR₂, C(O)OR, OR, NR₂, SiR₃, —S(O)_(m)R,

each R is independently hydrogen, or linear or cyclic C₁₋₆ alkyl, branched or unbranched C₁₋₆ alkyl, or saturated or unsaturate C₁₋₆ alkyl;

each m is independently 0, 1 or 2;

each R¹, R², R³, R⁴, R⁵, R⁶, R⁷, R₈, R⁹, R¹⁰, R¹¹, R¹², R¹³, R¹⁴, R¹⁵, R¹⁶, R¹⁷, and R¹⁸ is independently F, Cl, Br, I, cyano, —C(O)R, C(O)NR₂, C(O)OR, OR, NR₂, SiR₃, —S(O)_(m)R, substituted or unsubstituted straight or branched C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, C₂₋₁₀ alkenyl, or C₂₋₁₀ alkynyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃₋₁₀ cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₅₋₈ cycloalkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₇₋₂₀ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted saturated or unsaturated 3-11 member heterocyclyl or heterocyclylalkyl containing 1, 2, 3, or 4 heteroatoms selected independently from N, O, S(O)_(m);

provided that the compound of Formula Ic is not 2,2′-(3,3′-dimethoxybiphenyl-4,4′-diyl)bis(azanediyl)dibenzoic acid; and

wherein at least one of R⁹, R¹⁰, R¹¹, R¹², R¹³, R¹⁴, R¹⁵, R¹⁶, R¹⁷, and R¹⁸ is C(O)OR.

There is provided in accordance with another aspect of the invention, compounds of Formula II:

and stereoisomers, tautomers, solvates, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts, thereof, wherein:

each of R¹, R³, R⁴, R⁶, R⁷, R⁸, and R⁹ is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, hydroxyl, —(C₁-C₆)alkyl, —(C₁-C₆)alkylhydroxyl, —(C₁-C₆)alkylamino, —(C₁-C₆)alkylamide, —O(C₁-C₆)alkylhalo, —OC(O)(C₁-C₆)alkyl, halo, —C(O)R, —C(O)NR₂, and —C(O)OR. Each R is independently selected from the groups consisting of hydrogen, substituted or unsubstituted straight or branched C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, C₂₋₁₀ alkenyl, or C₂₋₁₀ alkynyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃₋₁₀ cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₅₋₈ cycloalkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₇₋₂₀ arylalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted saturated or unsaturated 3-11 member heterocyclyl or heterocyclylalkyl containing 1, 2, 3, or 4 heteroatoms selected independently from N, O, S.

There is provided in accordance with another aspect of the invention, pharmaceutical compositions comprising a compound of Formula Ia′:

Ar₁-L₁-Ar₂-L₂-Ar₃-L₃-Ar₄  Formula Ia′

or a stereoisomer, tautomer, solvate, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, thereof, wherein:

Ar₁, Ar₂, Ar₃, and Ar₄ are each independently null, C₆₋₁₀ aryl, C₆₋₁₀ heteroaryl, C₅₋₁₀ membered heterocycle, C₅-C₁₀ cycloalkyl, C₅-C₁₀ heterocycle, C₁-C₆ straight or branched alkyl, each of which is optionally substituted with one or more substituents R^(s);

L₁, L₂, and L₃ are each independently a covalent bond, or a saturated or unsaturated C₁₋₃ carbon chain, or a branched or unbranched C₁₋₃ carbon chain, wherein one or more methylene groups are optionally independently replaced by heteroatoms chosen from O, NR and S(O)_(m); and wherein L is optionally substituted with 0-2 oxo groups and one or more C₁₋₄ branched or unbranched alkyl optionally substituted by one or more F, Cl, Br, I, cyano, —C(O)R, C(O)NR₂, C(O)OR, OR, NR₂, SiR₃, —S(O)_(m)R,

each R is independently hydrogen, or linear or cyclic C₁₋₆ alkyl, branched or unbranched C₁₋₆ alkyl, or saturated or unsaturate C₁₋₆ alkyl;

each m is independently 0, 1 or 2;

each R^(s) is independently F, Cl, Br, I, cyano, —C(O)R, C(O)NR₂, C(O)OR, OR, NR₂, SiR₃, —S(O)_(m)R, substituted or unsubstituted straight or branched C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, C₂₋₁₀ alkenyl, or C₂₋₁₀ alkynyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃₋₁₀ cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₅₋₈ cycloalkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₇₋₂₀ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted saturated or unsaturated 3-11 member heterocyclyl or heterocyclylalkyl containing 1, 2, 3, or 4 heteroatoms selected independently from N, O, S(O)_(m); and a pharmaceuticaly acceptable carrier.

There is provided in accordance with another aspect of the invention, pharmaceutical compositions comprising a compound of Formula Ib′:

or a stereoisomer, tautomer, solvate, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, thereof, wherein:

Ar₁ and Ar₄ are each independently null, C₆₋₁₀ aryl, C₆₋₁₀ heteroaryl, C₅₋₁₀ heterocycle, C₅-C₁₀ cycloalkyl, C₅-C₁₀ heterocycle, each of which is optionally substituted with one or more substituents R¹, R², R³, R⁴, R⁵, R⁶, R⁷, and R⁸;

L₁ and L₃ are each independently a covalent bond, or a saturated or unsaturated C₁₋₃ carbon chain, or a branched or unbranched C₁₋₃ carbon chain, wherein one or more methylene groups are optionally independently replaced by O, NR or S(O)_(m); and wherein L₁ and L₃ are optionally substituted with 0-2 oxo groups and one or more C₁₋₄ branched or unbranched alkyl optionally substituted by one or more F, Cl, Br, I, cyano, —C(O)R, C(O)NR₂, C(O)OR, OR, NR₂, SiR₃, —S(O)_(m)R,

each R is independently hydrogen, or linear or cyclic C₁₋₆ alkyl, branched or unbranched C₁₋₆ alkyl, or saturated or unsaturate C₁₋₆ alkyl;

each m is independently 0, 1 or 2;

each R¹, R², R³, R⁴, R⁵, R⁶, R⁷, and R⁸ is independently F, Cl, Br, I, cyano, —C(O)R, C(O)NR₂, C(O)OR, OR, NR₂, SiR₃, —S(O)_(m)R, substituted or unsubstituted straight or branched C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, C₂₋₁₀ alkenyl, or C₂₋₁₀ alkynyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃₋₁₀ cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₅₋₈ cycloalkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₇₋₂₀ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted saturated or unsaturated 3-11 member heterocyclyl or heterocyclylalkyl, containing 1, 2, 3, or 4 heteroatoms selected independently from N, O, S(O)_(m); and a pharmaceuticaly acceptable carrier.

There is provided in accordance with another aspect of the invention, pharmaceutical compositions comprising a compound of Formula Ic′:

or a stereoisomer, tautomer, solvate, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, thereof, wherein:

each X is independently selected from N or C to form a phenyl, pyridyl, pyrazinyl, pyrimidyl, triazinyl, or tetrazinyl moiety;

L₁ and L₃ are each independently a covalent bond, or a saturated or unsaturated C₁₋₃ carbon chain, or a branched or unbranched C₁₋₃ carbon chain, wherein one or more methylene groups are optionally independently replaced by O, NR or S(O)_(m); and wherein L₁ and L₃ are optionally substituted with 0-2 oxo groups and one or more C₁₋₄ branched or unbranched alkyl optionally substituted by one or more F, Cl, Br, I, cyano, —C(O)R, C(O)NR₂, C(O)OR, OR, NR₂, SiR₃, —S(O)_(m)R,

each R is independently hydrogen, or linear or cyclic C₁₋₆ alkyl, branched or unbranched C₁₋₆ alkyl, or saturated or unsaturate C₁₋₆ alkyl;

each m is independently 0, 1 or 2;

each R¹, R², R³, R⁴, R⁵, R⁶, R⁷, R⁸, R⁹, R¹⁰, R¹¹, R¹², R¹³, R¹⁴, R¹⁵, R¹⁶, R¹⁷, and R¹⁸ is independently F, Cl, Br, I, cyano, —C(O)R, C(O)NR₂, C(O)OR, OR, NR₂, SiR₃, —S(O)_(m)R, substituted or unsubstituted straight or branched C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, C₂₋₁₀ alkenyl, or C₂₋₁₀ alkynyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃₋₁₀ cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₅₋₈ cycloalkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₇₋₂₀ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted saturated or unsaturated 3-11 member heterocyclyl or heterocyclylalkyl containing 1, 2, 3, or 4 heteroatoms selected independently from N, O, S(O)_(m); wherein at least one of R⁹, R¹⁰, R¹¹, R¹², R¹³, R¹⁴, R¹⁵, R¹⁶, R¹⁷, and R¹⁸ is C(O)OR; and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

There is provided in accordance with another aspect of the invention, pharmaceutical compositions comprising a compound of Formula II′:

or a stereoisomer, tautomer, solvate, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, thereof, wherein:

each of R¹, R³, R⁴, R⁶, R⁷, R⁸, and R⁹ is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, hydroxyl, —(C₁-C₆)alkyl, —(C₁-C₆)alkylhydroxyl, —(C₁-C₆)alkylamino, —(C₁-C₆)alkylamide, —O(C₁-C₆)alkylhalo, —OC(O)(C₁-C₆)alkyl, halo, —C(O)R, —C(O)NR₂, and —C(O)OR. Each R is independently selected from the groups consisting of hydrogen, substituted or unsubstituted straight or branched C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, C₂₋₁₀ alkenyl, or C₂₋₁₀ alkynyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃₋₁₀ cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₅₋₈ cycloalkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₇₋₂₀ arylalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted saturated or unsaturated 3-11 member heterocyclyl or heterocyclylalkyl containing 1, 2, 3, or 4 heteroatoms selected independently from N, O, S; and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

In another aspect, the invention is directed to methods of treating cancer in patients with pharmaceutical compositions comprising one or more compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′. This cancer may be a hematological malignancies. Such hematological malignancies include, for example, Multiple Myeloma, B-cell lymphoma, acute myelogenous leukemia, and chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Such treatment results in, for example, tumor regression. Tumor regression can include, for example, killing a cancer cell.

In another aspect, the invention is directed to methods of treating autoimmune diseases in patients with pharmaceutical compositions comprising one or more compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′. The autoimmune disease may be rheumatoid arthritis, osteo arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, psoriasis, neuromyaotonia, mayasthenia gravis, lupus erythematosus, endometriosis, Graves disease, granulomatosis, Crohns disease, interstitial cystitis, or multiple sclerosis.

A further embodiment of the invention is a method for treating particular types of hematopoietic cancers, using pharmaceutical compositions comprising one or more compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′. The use of these compounds for particular types of hematopoietic cancers have unexpected results in terms of efficacy and/or ability to inhibit particular anti-apoptotic (pro-survival) members of the Bcl-2 family or to mimic particular members of the pro-apoptotic Bcl-2 family proteins. Accordingly, hematological tumor cells that that are hyper-dependent on a particular member of the Bcl-2 family of proteins will be most affected by that BH3 mimic which targets that protein.

Accordingly, in one aspect the invention provides a method for killing a cancer cell comprising administering an amount of pharmaceutical compositions comprising one or more compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ effective to kill a cancer cell of a hematopoietic cancer. The types of hematopoietic cancer include, but are not limited to, Multiple Myeloma, B cell lymphoma, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, and acute myelogenous leukemia.

In another aspect, the invention provides a method for killing a cancer cell comprising administering an amount of pharmaceutical compositions comprising one or more compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ in combination with a 26S proteosome inhibitor to kill the cancer cell. The types of 26S proteosome inhibitors include, but are not limited to, bortezomib.

In another aspect, the invention provides a method for killing a cancer cell comprising administering an amount of pharmaceutical compositions comprising one or more compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ in combination with a chemotherapeutic agent that increases the level of Mcl-1 in the cancer cell. Such chemotherapeutic agents are 26S proteosome inhibitors and inhibitors of the BH3 domain containing e3 ligase called Mule. Such agents may be, but are not limited to, bortezomib or rituximab.

In another aspect, the invention provides a method for determining whether a candidate compound mimics a ligand specific for a target, the method comprising the steps of (a) providing in a first reaction, the target, a first labeled peptide specific for the target, and a first unlabeled peptide specific for the target, (b) providing in a second reaction, the target, the first labeled peptide specific for the target, and a first candidate compound, (c) comparing binding specificity of the first unlabeled peptide with binding specificity of the first candidate compound to determine whether the candidate compound mimics the first unlabeled peptide. In certain embodiments, this method further comprises repeating steps (a), (b), and (c) wherein the first labeled peptide specific for the target is replaced with a second labeled peptide specific for the target. In certain embodiments, the target comprises a BH3 domain binding region, such as for example, a hydrophobic pocket formed by the BH1, BH2, BH3 and BH4 domains of the anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family of proteins.

In another aspect, the invention provides a method for treating particular types of hematopoietic cancers using a compound selected from the group consisting of pharmaceutical compositions comprising one or more compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′. One or more of these compounds may inhibit the activity of the Bcl-2 family protein Mcl-1.

In one embodiment, the compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ are used in a method for treating particular types of hematopoietic cancers, such as B-cell lymphoma, to preferentially inhibit the binding of a peptide comprised of the BH3 domain of Bak to the Bcl-2 family protein Mcl-1. This activity is unique among all of the reported BH3 mimics and directs the use of this compound in treating certain hematological malignancies that are affected principally by the Bcl-2 family proteins and among those proteins, mostly by Mcl-1. Based on the unique ability of compound A, or B or derivative, to inhibit BH3 binding to Mcl-1, this compound may be effective in blocking the unwanted cell survival activity of Mcl-1 in tumorogenic lymphoid and myeloid cells, and therefore may be particularly effective as a therapy for treating Multiple Myeloma (MM), diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), acute myelogenous leukemia (AML), all of which are effected by elevated Mcl-1.

In another aspect, the invention provides a method for treating particular types of hematopoietic cancers using a combination of one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of Formula Ia, Ib, Ic, or II, in combination with other therapies, for example, a class of therapeutics known as 26S proteosome inhibitors, such as, for example, Bortezomib (Velcade®).

In another aspect, the invention provides methods for identifying specific activity of BH3 mimic compounds. For example, these compounds can have varying potencies in inhibiting BH3-mediated binding of particular Bcl-2 family proteins, and the difference in potency can be identified by systematically ordering combinations of protein-protein interactions and comparing the blocking activity of BH3 mimic compounds to that of competing BH3 domain containing peptides. By matching the activity of the compound to a particular BH3 domain peptide, a biological activity can be assigned to that compound that correlates to the activity of the BH3 domain containing protein. This information can be used to predict the utility of a BH3 mimic compounds in treating a particular disease.

In one aspect, the invention provides an agent, which modulates apoptosis by binding to the Bcl-2 family proteins including Mcl-1 and preferentially blocks BH3 domain binding.

In another aspect, the invention provides a method for using pharmaceutical compositions comprising one or more compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ as preferential inhibitors of Mcl-1.

In another aspect, the invention provides a method for blocking binding of the BH3-only Bcl-2 family proteins or parts thereof, for example Puma, Noxa, Bim, Bid and Bak, to Mcl-1.

In another aspect, the invention provides a method for using pharmaceutical compositions comprising one or more compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ as preferential inhibitors of Mcl-1 to induce apoptosis in cells overexpressing Mcl-1.

In another aspect, the invention provides a method for blocking binding of the BH3-only proteins or parts thereof, for example Puma, Noxa, Bim, Bid and Bak, to Mcl-1.

In another aspect, the invention provides a method for using specific BH3 mimic compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ for inhibiting the activity of the Bcl-2 family protein Mcl-1 for the purpose of treating lymphoid malignancies either alone or in combination with other anti-tumor agents.

In another aspect, the invention provides a method for using specific BH3 mimic compounds or Formula Ia, Ib, Ic, or II for inhibiting the activity of the Bcl-2 family protein Mcl-1 for the purpose of treating myeloid cancer either alone or in combination with other anti-tumor agents.

In another aspect, the invention provides a method for using specific BH3 mimic compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ for inhibiting the activity of the Bcl-2 family protein Mcl-1 for the purpose of treating prostate cancer either alone or in combination with other anti-tumor agents.

In another aspect, the invention provides a method for using specific BH3 mimic compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ for inhibiting the activity of the Bcl-2 family protein Mcl-1 for the purpose of treating non-Hodgkin's lymphoma patients who are resistant to Rituxan either alone or in combination with other anti-tumor agents.

In another aspect, the invention provides a method for using specific BH3 mimic compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ for inhibiting the activity of the Bcl-2 family protein Mcl-1 for the purpose of treating Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia patients who are resistant to Rituxan either alone or in combination with other anti-tumor agents.

In another aspect, the invention provides a method for using specific BH3 mimic compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ for inhibiting the activity of the Bcl-2 family protein Mcl-1 for the purpose of treating breast cancer either alone or in combination with other anti-tumor agents.

In another aspect, the invention provides a method for using specific BH3 mimic compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ for inhibiting the activity of the Bcl-2 family protein Mcl-1 for the purpose of treating liver cancer either alone or in combination with other anti-tumor agents.

In another aspect, the invention provides a method for using specific BH3 mimic compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ for inhibiting the activity of the Bcl-2 family protein Mcl-1 for the purpose of treating ovarian cancer either alone or in combination with other anti-tumor agents.

In another aspect, the invention provides a method for treating myelogenous leukemia patients with pharmaceutical compositions comprising one or more compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ in combination with Bortezomib or other proteosome inhibitors.

In another aspect, the invention provides a method for treating chronic lymphocytic leukemia patients with pharmaceutical compositions comprising one or more compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ in combination with Bortezomib.

In another aspect, the invention provides a method for treating Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma patients with pharmaceutical compositions comprising one or more compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ in combination with Bortezomib.

In another aspect, the invention provides a method for treating breast cancer patients with pharmaceutical compositions comprising one or more compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ in combination with Bortezomib.

In another aspect, the invention provides a method for treating prostate cancer patients with pharmaceutical compositions comprising one or more compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ in combination with Bortezomib.

In another aspect, the invention provides a method for treating colon cancer patients with pharmaceutical compositions comprising one or more compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ in combination with Bortezomib.

In another aspect, the invention provides a method for treating pancreatic cancer patients with pharmaceutical compositions comprising one or more compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ in combination with Bortezomib.

In another aspect, the invention provides a method for treating liver cancer patients with pharmaceutical compositions comprising one or more compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ in combination with Bortezomib.

In another aspect, the invention provides a method for identifying compounds of the BH3 mimic class of small molecules that are active against a subset of the BH3 domain containing proteins and therefore have predicted efficacy against particular tumor types.

In another aspect, the invention provides a method of treating a mammal suffering from migrating transformed B-Cell tumors (non-Hodgkin's) comprising the steps of administering pharmaceutical compsitions comprising a compound of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ and monitoring said mammal to determine state of said cancer; wherein said cancer is a cancer sensitive to said chemical targeted to Bcl-2 family; optionally wherein the amount administered is a quantity sufficient to constitute effective treatment, or wherein said cancer is chosen from a group of cancers consisting of: lymphoma, breast cancer, leukemia, lung cancer, bone cancer, prostate cancer gastric cancer, colon cancer, rectal cancer, liver cancer, cervical cancer, renal cancer, bladder cancer, nasopharyngeal cancer, esophagus cancer, pituitary gland tumor; thyroid cancer melanoma and pancreatic cancer.

In another aspect, the invention provides a method of preventing cancer comprising the step of administering a chemical to persons having a high risk of cancer.

In another aspect, the invention provides a method for selecting specific activity of a BH3 mimic compound based on similar activity to a peptide comprised of a particular BH3 domain.

In various embodiments of the invention, a mammal is a human; cancer is Multiple Myeloma,

In various embodiments of the invention, a mammal is a human; cancer is Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma; cancer is any other B-cell lymphomas; cancer is Small lymphocytic, consistent CLL; cancer is Follicular, predominantly small cleaved cell; cancer is Follicular, mixed small cleaved and large cell; cancer is Intermediate grade Follicular, large cell; cancer is Diffuse, small cleaved cell; cancer is Diffuse, mixed small cleaved and large cell; cancer is Diffuse, large cell (cleaved and non-cleaved; said cancer is High grade; cancer is Large cell, immunoblastic; cancer is Lymphoblastic; cancer is Small non-cleaved cell; cancer is Burkitt Non-Burkitt; cancer is Indolent NHL; cancer is B-cell CLL/small lymphocytic lymphoma; cancer is Marginal zone lymphoma; cancer is MALT; cancer is Splenic marginal 27. 27; cancer is zone lymphoma; cancer is Nodal marginal zone lymphoma; cancer is Lymphomplasmacytoid lymphoma/immunocytoma; cancer is Follicle center lymphoma, follicular type Grade I (0-5 centroblasts/hpf) or Grade II (6-15 centroblasts/hpf) or Grade III† (>15 centroblasts/hpf); cancer is Aggressive NHL; cancer is Diffuse, large cell lymphoma; cancer is Mediastinal large cell lymphoma; cancer is Primary effusion lymphoma; cancer is Mantle cell lymphoma†; cancer is Burkitt's lymphoma/high-grade Burkitt's-like; cancer is Precursor B-cell leukemia/lymphoma; cancer is Precursor T-cell leukemia/lymphoma; cancer is skin cancer; cancer is prostate cancer; cancer is gastric cancer; cancer is colon cancer; cancer is rectal cancer; cancer is liver cancer; cancer is cervical cancer; cancer is renal cancer; cancer is bladder cancer; cancer is nasopharyngeal cancer; cancer is esophagus cancer; cancer is pituitary gland tumor; cancer is thyroid cancer; cancer is melanoma; or cancer is pancreatic cancer.

In addition, in various embodiments of the invention, the chemical is administered by injecting it directly into a tumor; the chemical is administered by injecting it into said mammal's blood stream; the chemical is administered orally; the chemical is administered through said mammal's skin; the chemical targeted to compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ are administered in combination with prior art chemotherapy agents; or pharmaceutical compsitions comprising a compound of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ are administered in combination with radiation therapy.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The objects and features of the invention may be more fully understood by reference to the drawings as described below in which:

FIG. 1 is a graph showing preferential competition of Bim-BH3 peptide binding to Mcl-1 vs. Bim-BH3 peptide binding to Bcl-xL by the BH3 mimic compound A. Fluorescence Polarization (FP) was used to measure binding as described in Example 2.

FIG. 2 is a graph showing preferential competition of Bim-BH3 peptide binding to Mcl-1 vs. Bim-BH3 peptide binding to Bcl-xL by the BH3 mimic compound II-19. Fluorescence Polarization (FP) was used to measure binding as described in Example 2.

FIG. 3 is a graph showing the efficacy of compound A, in killing multiple myeloma-derived cells.

FIG. 4 is a set of graphs showing the efficacy of compound II-19, in killing multiple myeloma derived cells (NCI-H929, FIG. 4 a), acute myelogenousleukemia cells (AML-3, FIG. 4 b) and lymphoid derived cells (SUDHL-6, FIG. 4 c). On-target activity is indicated by the absence of activity against the Bax/Bak deficient cell line SUDHL-10 (FIG. 4 d). FIG. 4 e is a graph showing the efficacy of obatoclax in killing multiple myeloma derivated cells (NCI-H929) and a Bax-Bak deficient lymphoid derived cell line (SUDHL-10).

FIG. 5 is a chart showing the ability of compound A to induce mitochondrial membrane permeabilization.

FIG. 6 is a chart demonstrating the selective activity of compound A in inducing mitochondrial membrane permeabilization in a manner that is dependent on Bax and Bak.

FIG. 7 is a chart showing the ability of compound II-19 to induce mitochondrial membrane permeabilization in an assay measuring the release of cytochrome C.

FIG. 8 is a graph summarizing the effect of compound A on white blood cell count in a mouse human B cell leukemia mouse xenograft study.

FIG. 9 is a graph summarizing the activities of compound A in a mouse human B cell leukemia (CCRF-CEM) mouse xenograft study.

FIG. 10 is a graph comparing the inhibition of Mcl-1 and Bcl-xL by compound II-20 in the fluorescence polarization assay described in Example 2.

FIG. 11 is a graph of the pharmacokinetics of compound II-19 clearance in mouse plasma.

FIG. 12 is a graph showing the effect of compound II-19 on the growth of tumors derived from the myeloma cell line NCI H929 in a mouse human myeloma xenograft model. Activity of compound II-19 is compared to vehicle and to a dose of bortezomib known to show maximal activity.

The details of the invention are set forth in the accompanying description below. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present invention, illustrative methods and materials are now described. Other features, objects, and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the description and from the claims. In the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms also include the plural unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Definitions

The term “heteroaryl” as used herein refers to a monocyclic or bicyclic ring structure having 5 to 12 ring atoms wherein one or more of the ring atoms is a heteroatom, e.g. N, O or S and wherein one or more rings of the bicyclic ring structure is aromatic. Some examples of heteroaryl are pyridyl, furyl, pyrrolyl, thienyl, thiazolyl, oxazolyl, imidazolyl, indolyl, tetrazolyl, benzofuryl, xanthenes and dihydroindole. It is understood that any of the substitutable hydrogens on a heteroaryl can be substituted with halogen, C₁-C₃ alkyl, hydroxyl, alkoxy and cyano groups.

As used herein “anti-apoptotic-protein” is a protein, which when expressed in a cell, blocks programmed cell death in cancer cells, or other cells that are otherwise being directed to undergo apoptosis.

As used herein “hematological malignancies” refers to any cancer of the blood or bone marrow, such as leukemia or lymphoma. Examples include but not limited to: Myelomas (e.g. Multiple myeloma and Giant cell myeloma), Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), Acute myelogenous leukemia (AML), Acute myelogenous leukemia (AML), Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML), Acute monocytic leukemia (AMOL), Hodgkin's lymphomas (all four subtypes). In addition Non-Hodgkin's lymphomas such as Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), Follicular lymphoma (FL), Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL), Marginal zone lymphoma (MZL), Burkitt's lymphoma (BL), Burkitt's lymphoma (BL), and other NK- or T-cell lymphomas are included.

As used herein, the term “Bcl-2” refers to the anti-apoptotic protein originally discovered as the causal “oncogene” in lymphomas and first discovered among the anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family proteins.

As used herein “pro-apoptotic protein” means a protein that when expressed in a cell causes the cell to undego apoptosis.

By “disrupts an interaction” is meant that a test compound decreases the ability of two polypeptides to interact with each other. In certain instances the disruption results in at least a 99% decrease in the ability of the polypeptides to interact with each other. These were identified using a combination of virtual screening for molecular structures, which fit the ideal structure of BH3 pocket and competition binding studies using fluorescence polarization (FP).

By “fluorescence polarization assay” is meant an assay in which an interaction between two polypeptides is measured. In this assay, one polypeptide is labeled with a fluorescent tag, and this polypeptide emits non-polarized light when excited with polarized light. Upon an interaction of the tagged polypeptide with another polypeptide, the polarization of emitted light is increased, and this increased polarization of light can be detected. By “interacts” is meant a compound that recognizes and binds to an anti-apoptotic protein but which does not substantially recognize and bind to other molecules in a sample.

The present invention generally relates to compositions and methods for treating hematological malignancies. Such hematological malignancies include, for example, Multiple Myeloma, B-cell lymphoma, acute myelogenous leukemia, and chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Such treatment, results in, for example, tumor regression in a mammal, such as a mouse or a human. Tumor regression can include, for example, killing a cancer cell.

There is provided in accordance with one aspect of the invention, compounds of Formula Ia:

Ar₁-L₁-Ar₂-L₂-Ar₃-L₃-Ar₄  Formula Ia

and stereoisomers, tautomers, solvates, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts, thereof, wherein

Ar₁, Ar₂, Ar₃, Ar₄, L₁, L₂ and L₃ are defined above for Formula Ia;

provided that the compound of Formula Ia is not 2,2′-(3,3′-dimethoxybiphenyl-4,4′-diyl)bis(azanediyl)dibenzoic acid or N4,N4′-bis(1-iminoisoindolin-5-yl)biphenyl-4,4′-diamine.

In some embodiments, Ar₁, Ar₂, Ar₃, and Ar₄ are each independently selected from null, indazolyl, indolyl, isoindolyl, imidazolyl, benzimidazolyl, isoxazolyl, oxazolyl, thiazolyl, benzothiazolyl, piperidinyl, pyrazolyl, pyrazolinyl, pyrrolyl, pyrrolinyl, pyridinyl, pyridazinyl, pyrimidinyl, quinolinyl, isoquinolinyl, tetrahydroquinolyl, dihydroquinolyl, phthalazinyl, dihydroindolyl, indolinyl, benzoisoxazolyl, dihydrobenzoisoxazolyl, dihydroisoindolyl, benzoisothiazolyl, benzoisothiazolyl dioxide, cyclopentyl, cyclohexyl, tetrahydropyranyl, each of which is optionally substituted with one or more substituents R^(s).

In some embodiments, Ar₁, Ar₂, Ar₃, and Ar₄ are each C₆-C₁₀ aryl.

In some embodiments, Ar₂ and Ar₃ are each C₆-C₁₀ aryl.

In some embodiments, Ar₂ and Ar₃ are each C₆ aryl.

In some embodiments, Ar₁ and Ar₄ are each C₆ aryl.

In some embodiments, Ar₁ and Ar₄ are the same.

In some embodiments, Ar₁ and Ar₄ are not the same.

In some embodiments, Ar₁ and Ar₄ are each null.

In some embodiments, Ar₁ and Ar₄ are each C₅₋₁₀ membered heterocyclic.

In some embodiments, Ar₁ is pyridinyl and Ar₄ is phenyl.

In some embodiments, Ar₁ and Ar₄ are each pyrimidinyl.

In some embodiments, Ar1 and Ar4 are each pyrazolyl.

In some embodiments, Ar1 and Ar4 are each isoxazolyl.

In some embodiments, Ar1 and Ar4 are each a quinolinyl.

In some embodiments, L2 is a bond.

In some embodiments, L2 is other than a bond.

In some embodiments, L2 is —S(O)2-.

In some embodiments, L1 and L3 are the same.

In some embodiments, L1 and L3 are not the same.

In some embodiments, L1 and L3 are each —NR—.

In some embodiments, L1 and L3 are each —O—.

In some embodiments, L₁ is NR and L₃ is O.

In other illustrative embodiments, compounds of Formula Ia are set forth below:

-   2,2′-((Sulfonylbis(2-methoxy-4,1-phenylene))bis(azanediyl))dibenzoic     acid (Ia-1);

-   3,3′-((3,3′-Dimethoxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4,4′-diyl)bis(azanediyl))dipropanoic     acid (Ia-2);

-   3,3′-((3,3′-Dimethoxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4,4′-diyl)bis(azanediyl))bis(3-phenylpropanoic     acid) (Ia-3);

-   3,3′-((3,3′-Dimethoxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4,4′-diyl)bis(azanediyl))bis(2-phenylpropanoic     acid) (Ia-4);

-   2,2′-((3,3′-Dimethoxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4,4′-diyl)bis(azanediyl))bis(2-phenylacetic     acid) (Ia-5);

-   2,2′-(((3,3′-Dimethoxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4,4′-diyl)bis(azanediyl))bis(sulfonyl))dibenzoic     acid (Ia-6);

-   2-((4′-((2-Carboxyphenyl)sulfonyl)-3,3′-dimethoxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-yl)sulfonyl)-6-methylbenzoic     acid (Ia-7);

-   Methyl     1-(2,2′,6,6′-tetrahydroxy-4′-((2-hydroxy-5-(methoxycarbonyl)phenyl)amino)-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-yl)-1H-indole-6-carboxylate     (Ia-8);

-   Methyl     2-oxo-1-(2,2′,6,6′-tetrahydroxy-4′-((2-hydroxy-5-(methoxycarbonyl)phenyl)amino)-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-yl)indoline-6-carboxylate     (Ia-9);

-   Methyl     2-oxo-3-(2,2′,6,6′-tetrahydroxy-4′-((2-hydroxy-5-(methoxycarbonyl)phenyl)amino)-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-yl)-2,3-dihydro-1H-benzo[d]imidazole-5-carboxylate     (Ia-10);

-   Methyl     2-oxo-1-(2,2′,6,6′-tetrahydroxy-4′-((2-hydroxy-5-(methoxycarbonyl)phenyl)amino)-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-yl)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinoline-7-carboxylate     (Ia-11);

-   Methyl     1-(2,2′,6,6′-tetrahydroxy-4′-((2-hydroxy-5-(methoxycarbonyl)phenyl)amino)-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-yl)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinoline-7-carboxylate     (Ia-12);

-   Methyl     2-oxo-1-(2,2′,6,6′-tetrahydroxy-4′-((2-hydroxy-5-(methoxycarbonyl)phenyl)amino)-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-yl)-1,2-dihydroquinoline-7-carboxylate     (Ia-13);

-   2-((2,2′,6,6-Tetrahydroxy-4′-(7-(methoxycarbonyl)-2-oxo-3,4-dihydroquinolin-1(2H)-yl)-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-yl)amino)benzoic     acid (Ia-14).

-   2-((4′-((2-carboxyphenyl)(methyl)amino)-3,3′-dimethoxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-yl)amino)benzoic     acid (Ia-15);

-   2,2′-((3,3′-dimethoxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4,4′-diyl)bis(methylazanediyl))dibenzoic     acid (Ia-16);

-   2-((4′-(2-carboxybenzyl)-3,3′-dimethoxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-yl)amino)benzoic     acid (Ia-17);

-   2,2′-((3,3′-dimethoxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4,4′-diyl)bis(methylene))dibenzoic     acid (Ia-18);

-   2,2′-((3,3′-dihydroxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4,4′-diyl)bis(oxy))dibenzoic     acid (Ia-19);

-   dimethyl     2,2′-((3,3′-dimethoxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4,4′-diyl)bis(azanediyl))dibenzoate     (Ia-20);

-   6,6′-((3,3′-dimethoxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4,4′-diyl)bis(azanediyl))bis(3-methylbenzoic     acid) (Ia-21).

In another aspect, there is provided compounds of Formula Ib:

and stereoisomers, tautomers, solvates, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts, thereof, wherein

Ar₁, Ar₄ R¹, R², R³, R⁴, R⁵, R⁶, R⁷, and R⁸, L₁ and L₃ are as defined above for Formula Ib, with the proviso that the compound of Formula Ib is not 2,2′-(3,3′-dimethoxybiphenyl-4,4′-diyl)bis(azanediyl)dibenzoic acid, and Ar₁ and Ar₄ are not simultaneously isoindolin-1-imine.

In some embodiments, Ar₁ and Ar₄ are each independently selected from null, indazolyl, indolyl, isoindolyl, imidazolyl, benzimidazolyl, isoxazolyl, oxazolyl, thiazolyl, benzothiazolyl, piperidinyl, pyrazolyl, pyrazolinyl, pyrrolyl, pyrrolinyl, pyridinyl, pyridazinyl, pyrimidinyl, quinolinyl, isoquinolinyl, tetrahydroquinolyl, dihydroquinolyl, phthalazinyl, dihydroindolyl, indolinyl, benzoisoxazolyl, dihydrobenzoisoxazolyl, dihydroisoindolyl, benzoisothiazolyl, benzoisothiazolyl dioxide, each of which is optionally substituted with one or more substituents R^(s).

In some embodiments, Ar₁ and A₄ are each independently selected from cyclopentanyl, cyclohexyl, tetrahydropyranyl, and piperidinyl.

In some embodiments, Ar₁ and A₄ are each cyclopentanyl.

In some embodiments, Ar₁ and A₄ are each cyclohexyl.

In some embodiments, Ar₁ and A₄ are each piperidinyl.

In some embodiments, L₁ and L₃ are each NH.

In some embodiments, illustrative compounds of Formula Ib are described below:

-   2,2′-(3,3′-Dimethoxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4,4′-diyl)bis(azanediyl))dicyclopentanecarboxylic     acid (Ib-1);

-   2,2′-((3,3′-Dimethoxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4,4′-diyl)bis(azanediyl))dicyclohexanecarboxylic     acid (Ib-2);

-   4,4′-((3,3′-Dimethoxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4,4′-diyl)bis(azanediyl))bis(tetrahydro-2H-pyran-3-carboxylic     acid) (Ib-3); and

-   1,1′-(3,3′-Dimethoxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4,4′-diyl)bis(piperidine-2-carboxylic     acid) (Ib-4).

In another aspect, there is provided compounds of Formula Ic:

and stereoisomers, tautomers, solvates, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts, thereof, wherein

Ar₁, and Ar₄ R¹, R², R³, R⁴, R⁵, R⁶, R⁷, R⁸, R⁹, R¹⁰, R¹¹, R¹², R¹³, R¹⁴, R¹⁵, R¹⁶, R¹⁷, R¹⁸, L₁ and L₃ are as defined above for Formula Ic, with the proviso that the compound of Formula Ia is not 2,2′-(3,3′-dimethoxybiphenyl-4,4′-diyl)bis(azanediyl)dibenzoic acid.

In other embodiment, illustrative compounds of Formula Ic are described below:

-   3,3′-((3,3′-dimethoxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4,4′-diyl)bis(azanediyl))dibenzoic     acid (Ic-1);

-   2,2′-((3,3′-dihydroxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4,4′-diyl)bis(azanediyl))dibenzoic     acid (Ic-6);

-   2-((4′-((2-carboxyphenyl)amino)-3,3′-dimethoxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-yl)amino)-5-methylbenzoic     acid (Ic-7);

-   3-((4′-((2-carboxyphenyl)amino)-3,3′-dimethoxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-yl)amino)isonicotinic     acid (Ic-8);

-   6,6′-((3,3′-dimethoxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4,4′-diyl)bis(azanediyl))bis(3-methylbenzoic     acid) (Ic-17); and

-   2,2′-((3,3′-dimethoxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4,4′-diyl)bis(azanediyl))bis(4-methoxybenzoic     acid) (Ic-18);

-   2,2′-((((3,3′-dimethoxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4,4′-diyl)bis(azanediyl))bis(2,1-phenylene))bis(oxy))diacetic     acid (Ic-2);

-   2,2′-((2,2′-dimethoxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4,4′-diyl)bis(azanediyl))dibenzoic     acid (Ic-3);

-   2,2′-((2,3′-dimethoxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4,4′-diyl)bis(azanediyl))dibenzoic     acid (Ic-4);

-   2-((4′-(2-carboxyphenoxy)-3,3′-dimethoxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-yl)amino)benzoic     acid (Ic-5);

-   5,5′-((3,3′-dimethoxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4,4′-diyl)bis(azanediyl))bis(pyrimidine-4-carboxylic     acid) (Ic-9);

-   4-((4′-((4-carboxy-1-methyl-1H-pyrazol-3-yl)amino)-3,3′-dimethoxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-yl)amino)-1-methyl-1H-pyrazole-3-carboxylic     acid (Ic-10);

-   5-((4′-((5-carboxyisoxazol-4-yl)amino)-3,3′-dimethoxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-yl)amino)isoxazole-4-carboxylic     acid (Ic-11);

-   5-((4′-((5-carboxy-2-methyloxazol-4-yl)amino)-3,3′-dimethoxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-yl)amino)-2-methyloxazole-4-carboxylic     acid (Ic-12);

-   3,3′-((3,3′-dimethoxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4,4′-diyl)bis(azanediyl))diisonicotinic     acid (Ic-13);

-   dimethyl     3,3′-((2-isopropoxy-2′-methoxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4,4′-diyl)bis(azanediyl))bis(4-hydroxybenzoate)     (Ic-14);

-   dimethyl     3,3′-((2,2′,6,6′-tetrahydroxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4,4′-diyl)bis(azanediyl))bis(4-hydroxybenzoate)     (Ic-15);

-   dimethyl     3,3′-((2,2′-dihydroxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4,4′-diyl)bis(azanediyl))bis(4-hydroxybenzoate)     (Ic-16);

-   2-((2,2′,6,6′-tetrahydroxy-4′-((2-hydroxy-5-(methoxycarbonyl)phenyl)amino)-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-yl)amino)benzoic     acid (Ic-19);

-   2,2′-((2,2′-dimethoxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4,4′-diyl)bis(azanediyl))dibenzoic     acid (Ic-20).

Also described herein are compounds of Formula II:

-   -   Formula II

and stereoisomers, tautomers, solvates, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts, thereof, wherein

R¹, R³, R⁴, R⁶, R⁷, R⁸, and R⁹ are as defined above for Formula II.

In some embodiments, two of R¹, R³, R⁴, R⁶, R⁷, R⁸, and R⁹ are each C(O)R.

In some embodiments, two of R¹, R³, R⁴, R⁶, R⁷, R⁸, and R⁹ are each C(O)methyl.

In some embodiments, four of R¹, R³, R⁴, R⁶, R⁷, R⁸, and R⁹ are each —OH.

In some embodiments, each R⁹ is C(O)R.

In some embodiments, each R9 is C(O)methyl.

In some embodiments, each R1 and R6 is each OH.

In some embodiments, each R4 is C(O)R.

In some embodiments, each R4 is C(O)H.

In some embodiments, each R4 is CH2OH.

In other embodiments, illustrative compounds of Formula II are described below:

-   dimethyl     4,4′-diformyl-1,1′,3,3′,6,6′-hexahydroxy-[2,2′-biphenazine]-9,9′-dicarboxylate     (II-19); and

-   dimethyl     1,1′,3,3′,6,6′-hexahydroxy-4,4′-bis(hydroxymethyl)-[2,2′-biphenazine]-9,9′-dicarboxylate     (II-20).

-   dimethyl     1,1′,3,3′,6,6′-hexahydroxy-[2,2′-biphenazine]-9,9′-dicarboxylate     (II-1);

-   1,1′,3,3′,6,6′-hexahydroxy-[2,2′-biphenazine]-9,9′-dicarboxylic acid     (II-2);

-   1,1′-(1,1′,3,3′,6,6′-hexahydroxy-[2,2′-biphenazine]-9,9′-diyl)diethanone     (II-3);

-   9,9′-bis(1-hydroxyethyl)-[2,2′-biphenazine]-1,1′,3,3′,6,6′-hexaol     (II-4);

-   9,9′-bis(2-hydroxypropan-2-yl)-[2,2′-biphenazine]-1,1′,3,3′,6,6′-hexaol     (II-5);

-   9,9′-diisopropyl-[2,2′-biphenazine]-1,1′,3,3′,6,6′-hexaol (II-6);

-   [2,2′-biphenazine]-1,1′,3,3′,6,6′-hexaol (II-7);

-   dimethyl     4,4′-bis((dimethylamino)methyl)-1,1′,3,3′,6,6′-hexahydroxy-[2,2′-biphenazine]-9,9′-dicarboxylate     (II-8);

-   dimethyl     4,4′-bis((benzylamino)methyl)-1,1′,3,3′,6,6′-hexahydroxy-[2,2′-biphenazine]-9,9′-dicarboxylate     (II-9);

-   dimethyl     1,1′,3,3′,6,6′-hexahydroxy-4,4′-bis((methylamino)methyl)-[2,2′-biphenazine]-9,9′-dicarboxylate     (II-10);

-   dimethyl     1,1′,3,3′,6,6′-hexahydroxy-4,4′-bis((isopropylamino)methyl)-[2,2′-biphenazine]-9,9′-dicarboxylate     (II-11);

-   dimethyl     1,1′,3,3′,6,6′-hexahydroxy-4,4′-bis((phenylamino)methyl)-[2,2′-biphenazine]-9,9′-dicarboxylate     (II-12);

-   dimethyl     1,1′,3,3′,6,6′-hexahydroxy-4,4′-bis(pyrrolidin-1-ylmethyl)-[2,2′-biphenazine]-9,9′-dicarboxylate     (II-13);

-   dimethyl     4,4′-bis(((cyclopropylmethyl)amino)methyl)-1,1′,3,3′,6,6′-hexahydroxy-[2,2′-biphenazine]-9,9′-dicarboxylate     (II-14);

-   dimethyl     1,1′,3,3′,6,6′-hexahydroxy-[2,2′-biphenazine]-9,9′-dicarboxylate     (II-15);

-   dimethyl     4,4′-bis(aminomethyl)-1,1′,3,3′,6,6′-hexahydroxy-[2,2′-biphenazine]-9,9′-dicarboxylate     (II-16);

-   dimethyl     4,4′-bis(acetamidomethyl)-1,1′,3,3′,6,6′-hexahydroxy-[2,2′-biphenazine]-9,9′-dicarboxylate     (II-17);

-   dimethyl     4,4′-bis(benzamidomethyl)-1,1′,3,3′,6,6′-hexahydroxy-[2,2′-biphenazine]-9,9′-dicarboxylate     (II-18);

-   N9,N9′-dibenzyl-1,1′,3,3′,6,6′-hexahydroxy-4,4′-bis(hydroxymethyl)-[2,2′-biphenazine]-9,9′-dicarboxamide     (II-21);

-   1,1′,3,3′,6,6′-hexahydroxy-4,4′-bis(hydroxymethyl)-N9,N9′-bis(2-phenylpropyl)-[2,2′-biphenazine]-9,9′-dicarboxamide     (II-22);

-   1,1′,3,3′,6,6′-hexahydroxy-4,4′-bis(hydroxymethyl)-N9,N9′-diisobutyl-[2,2′-biphenazine]-9,9′-dicarboxamide     (II-23);

-   1,1′,3,3′,6,6′-hexahydroxy-4,4′-bis(hydroxymethyl)-N9,N9′-diisopropyl-[2,2′-biphenazine]-9,9′-dicarboxamide     (II-24); and

-   1,1′,3,3′,6,6′-hexahydroxy-4,4′-bis(hydroxymethyl)-N9,N9′-dimethyl-[2,2′-biphenazine]-9,9′-dicarboxamide     (II-25).

Methods of Making

Examples of synthetic pathways useful for making compounds described herein are set forth in the Examples below and in Schemes I-VII.

Compound Ic-7 can be synthesized by reacting commercially available 3,3′-dimethoxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4,4′-diamine (1 equivalent) with 1.2 equivalents of the commercially available methyl ester of iodobenzoic acid in the presence of Pd₂(dba)₃/DPPP (0.1-0.5 equiv) and 1.2 equivalents Cs₂CO₃ in toluene at 110° C. for 20 h with vigorous stirring. The intermediate compound methyl 2-((4′-amino-3,3′-dimethoxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-yl)amino)benzoate is isolated by flash chromatography on a C18 column. The product is then reacted by addition of 1.2 equivalent of methyl 2-iodo-5-methylbenzoate in the presence of catalytic (0.1-0.5 equiv) Pd₂(dba)₃/DPPP and 1.2 equivalents anhydrous, finely powdered Cs₂CO₃ in toluene at 110° C. for 20 h to yield methyl 2-((3,3′-dimethoxy-4′-((2-(methoxycarbonyl)phenyl)amino)-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-yl)amino)-5-methylbenzoate. The methyl esters can then be hydrolyzed under basic conditions followed by acidification to yield compound Ic-7,2-((4′-((2-carboxyphenyl)amino)-3,3′-dimethoxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-yl)amino)-5-methylbenzoic acid.

The intermediate compound from Scheme I, methyl 2-((4′-amino-3,3′-dimethoxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-yl)amino)benzoate is reacted by addition of 1.2 equivalent of methyl 3-iodoisonicotinate in the presence of catalytic (0.1 equiv) Pd₂(dba)₃/DPPP and 1.2 equivalents anhydrous, finely powdered Cs₂CO₃ in toluene at 110° C. for 20 h with vigorous stirring. The methyl esters can be subsequently hydrolyzed by heating the product under basic conditions followed by acidification to yield compound Ic-8,3-((4′-((2-carboxyphenyl)amino)-3,3′-dimethoxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-yl)amino)isonicotinic acid.

The compound Ic-17 can be synthesized by reacting commercially available 3,3′-dimethoxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4,4′-diamine (1 equivalent) with 2.4 equivalents of the commercially available methyl 2-iodo-5-methylbenzoate in the presence of Pd₂(dba)₃/DPPP (0.1-0.5 equiv) and 2.4 equivalents anhydrous, finely powdered Cs₂CO₃ in toluene at 110° C. for 20 h with vigorous stirring. The methyl esters can be subsequently hydrolyzed by heating the product under basic conditions followed by acidification to yield compound Ic-17.

The compound Ic-18 can be synthesized by reacting commercially available 3,3′-dimethoxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4,4′-diamine (1 equivalent) with 2.4 equivalents of the commercially available methyl 2-iodo-4-methoxybenzoate in the presence of Pd₂(dba)₃/DPPP (0.1-0.5 equiv) and 2.4 equivalents anhydrous, finely powdered Cs₂CO₃ in toluene at 110° C. for 20 h with vigorous stirring. The methyl esters can be subsequently hydrolyzed by heating the product under basic conditions followed by acidification to yield compound Ic-18.

Compound Ic-6 can be prepared by treating 0.2 mmol of the commercially available starting material 2,2′-((3,3′-dimethoxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4,4′-diyl)bis(azanediyl))dibenzoic acid in a stirred solution of anhydrous CH₂Cl₂ (10 mL) at −78° C. with a 20-fold excess of BBr₃ (4 mmol), added dropwise, for 1 h. The solution is then warmed to room temperature for 1 h. The reaction is quenched by slowly adding 10 mL of an ice cold solution of 6 M HCl to the mixture and stirring at room temperature for 1 h. The aqueous layer is extracted with CH₂Cl₂ (3×50 mL), and the combined organic layers are dried over MgSO₄. The solvent is concentrated in vacuo and the residue is purified on a C18 column eluted with a linear gradient from 5% acetonitrile.0.1% TFA to 100% acetonitrile/0.1% TFA.

The compound Ic-1 can be synthesized by reacting commercially available 3,3′-dimethoxy-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4,4′-diamine (1 equivalent) with 2.4 equivalents of the commercially available methyl 2-iodo-5-methylbenzoate in the presence of Pd₂(dba)₃/DPPP (0.1-0.5 equiv) and 2.4 equivalents anhydrous, finely powdered Cs₂CO₃ in toluene at 110° C. for 20 h with vigorous stirring. The methyl esters can be subsequently hydrolyzed by heating the product under basic conditions followed by acidification to yield compound Ic-1.

The compound II-19 (prepared as described in Example 1) is converted to the alcohol form II-20 by dissolving the starting material in DMSO and treating the compound with 10 equivalents of NaCNBH₃ for 24 h at room temperature. The product is purified by reverse phase chromatography on a C18 column eluted with a linear gradient from 5% acetonitrile.0.1% TFA to 100% acetonitrile/0.1% TFA.

Methods of Using

The invention relates to treating hematological malignancies with pharmaceutical compositions comprising one or more compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′, and/or BH3 mimic compounds that inhibit a broad range of the Bcl-2 family of proteins, most notably Mcl-1. It is contemplated that the activity against the protein Mcl-1 of the compounds A or II-19 (FIGS. 1-7) as well as derivative compounds will enable therapeutic utility of these compounds as anti-tumor agents in treating cancer, including blood cancers.

The invention, for example, provides a method for treating particular types of hematopoietic cancers, using pharmaceutical compositions comprising BH3 mimic compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′. The use of these compounds for particular types of hematopoietic cancers may have unexpected results in terms of efficacy and/or ability to inhibit particular anti-apoptotic (pro-survival) members of the Bcl-2 family or to mimic particular members of the pro-apoptotic Bcl-2 family proteins. Accordingly, hematological tumor cells that are hyper-dependent on a particular member of the Bcl-2 family of proteins will be most affected by that BH3 mimic which targets that protein.

Compound A is also known as redoxal, which has the following structure:

Compound A may be particularly useful in a method of treating hematopoietic cancers, by preferentially inhibiting the binding of the activator BH3 only proteins of the Bcl-2 family to protein Mcl-1. This level of activity (<500 nM) is among the most potent of all reported BH3 mimics and directs the use of this compound in treating certain hematological malignancies that are affected principally by the Bcl-2 family proteins and among those proteins, mostly by Mcl-1. Based on the unique ability of compound A to inhibit BH3 binding to Mcl-1, this compound may be particularly effective in blocking the unwanted cell survival activity of Mcl-1 in tumorogenic lymphoid and myeloid cells. This feature of compound A will direct its use as a potential therapeutic agent for treating Multiple Myeloma (MM), diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), acute myelogenous leukemia (AML), all of which are effected by elevated Mcl-1. Compound II-19 exhibits surprisingly high affinity against Mcl-1 (IC₅₀=7 nM) and Bcl-xL (IC₅₀=15 nM) and this level of activity makes it the most potent of small molecule (non-peptide) BH3 mimetics reported to date. This potent activity directs its use in treating certain hematological malignancies that are affected by Bcl-2 family proteins that include Mcl-1, Bcl-xL, or the closely protein related Bcl-2. Similarly, activity in derivatives of compound A, compounds of Formula Ia, Ib, Ic, as well as compounds of Formula II, may direct the use of those compounds in treating lymphoid and myeloid malignancies.

Methods of treatment of hematopoietic cancers in patients using pharmaceutical compositions comprising compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ are provided. These compounds have broad activity against all Bcl-2 family proteins, most notably including Bcl-2 protein family member Mcl-1, which is not expected. Accordingly, one aspect of this invention is directed to a method for treating hematopoietic cancers, such as Multiple Myeloma, by preferentially targeting Bcl-2 protein family member Mcl-1 with a member of the group consisting of pharmaceutical compositions comprising compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′.

Methods for tumor regression and enhancing survival in B-cell lymphomas in patients by administering pharmaceutical compositions comprising a compound of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ are provided. Accordingly, in one embodiment, this invention describes a method for using compounds of Formula Ia, Ib, and Ic for the treatment of non-Hodgkin's B-cell lymphoma, including CLL, Burkett's, Indolent and Aggressive non-Hodgkin's lymphomas, Multiple Myelomas, or other cancers that are affected by Bcl-2 family of proteins, and in particular the protein Mcl-1.

These treatments may be accomplished utilizing pharmaceutical compositions comprising a compound of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ alone or in combination with other chemotherapy agents or with radiation therapy. Accordingly, the invention provides a method for treating particular types of hematopoietic cancers using a combination of one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of pharmaceutical compositions comprising a compound of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′, in combination with other therapies, for example, a class of therapeutics known as 26S proteosome inhibitors, such as, for example, Bortezomib (Velcade®).

In addition, this invention relates to methods for determining selectivity of compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ and BH3 mimic compounds to predict efficacy in treating hematological and other malignancies involving Bcl-2 family proteins. For example, these compounds can have varying potencies in inhibiting BH3 mediated-binding of particular Bcl-2 family proteins, and the difference in potency can be identified by systematically ordering combinations of protein-protein interactions and comparing the blocking activity of BH3 mimic compounds to that of competing BH3 domain-containing peptides. By matching the activity of the compound to a particular BH3 domain peptide, a biological activity can be assigned to that compound that correlates to the activity of the BH3 domain-containing protein. This information can be used to predict the utility of a BH3 mimic compounds in treating a particular disease.

This invention also relates to cancer treatments and especially to Multiple Myeloma treatments directed to Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL and Mcl-1 and Bcl-2A1 and Bcl-w (referred as a group as an anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family) activity.

A. Treatment with Compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ to Inhibit Bcl-2 Proteins

The present invention describes anti-tumor efficacy and enhanced survivability in mouse models for hematological malignancies by treatment with pharmaceutical compositions comprising one or more compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′. Efficacy in certain animal models may be transferable to humans afflicted with B-cell lymphoma or other hematological or non-hematological cancers affected by Bcl-2 family proteins.

This treatment could be administered as a stand-alone therapy or with prior art chemotherapy agents or with radiation therapy. In one embodiment, the pharmaceutical compositions comprising compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′, are used for the treatment of B-cell lymphoma or Multiple Myeloma by inducing cancer cell death and preventing cancer cell migration to spleen or lymph nodes.

Because Mcl-1 has emerged as a key member of the Bcl-2 family of proteins for initiating and maintaining certain Myeloid as well as B-cell and T-cell malignancies, it is an important target for treatment of many hematological diseases. This invention demonstrates the effectiveness of the compound A in inhibiting BH3 binding to Mcl-1. It is taught that this feature of compound A is useful for treating Multiple Myeloma, B-cell lymphoma or other hematological cancers or other disease that are affected by Mcl-1 activity including prostate, liver, and ovarian cancers.

Compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ have activity against Mcl-1. Accordingly, compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ and pharmaceutical compositions comprising a compound of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ are useful therapeutic compounds in treating MM, NHL, CLL, AML, prostate, liver and ovarian cancers, and melanomas.

This activity will also direct the use of these compounds for treatment of certain autoimmune diseases that are affected by excess B or T cell proliferation.

Data described in the examples below indicate that compound A has unique capability to preferentially disrupt binding of Bim BH3 peptides to purified Mcl-1 in comparison to Bcl-xL protein in an in vitro assay. An experiment reported below used Fluorescence polarization (FP) to assess the concentration of compound A or compound II-19 that causes 50% inhibition (IC₅₀) of Bim BH3 binding to Mcl-1 (Example 1). Binding of peptides consisting of the BH3 binding domain of the pro-apoptotic protein Bak to purified Human Bcl-xL or Human Mcl-1 was carried out in the presence of titrated compound A, or compound II-19. (Degterev et al. (2002) Nat. Cell. Biol. 3: 173-82). These compounds were effective at blocking Bim binding to Bcl-xL. However, each is more effective at binding of Mcl-1 and demonstrated lower IC₅₀. This preferred sensitivity of Mcl-1 for compounds A, or compound II-19, indicates that these compounds have novel characteristics that make them uniquely valuable as anti-tumor therapeutics. This activity of compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ in inhibiting BH3 mediated binding to Mcl-1 has not been reported in the literature.

The present invention relates to the use of pharmaceutical compositions comprising a compound of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ as compositions in inhibiting the activity of Bcl-2 pro-survival proteins, most particularly Mcl-1, in tumor cells and thereby killing those cells. The ability of these compounds to inhibit Mcl-1 function in cells makes these compounds effective anti-B-cell, T-cell, and Myeloma cell cancer therapeutics for treating non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, CLL, MM, and AML as well as prostate, colon, ovarian, and liver cancer and melanoma.

Compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′, cause tumor regression, for example by killing a cancer cell, and increased survival in several mouse tumor models, including, for example models for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) (Cattoretti et al. (2005) Cancer Cell 7: 445-55), small B cell lymphoma/CLL (Zapata et al. (2004) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 101(47): 16600-5) and migrating B-cell lymphomas (Refaeli et al. (2005) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 102(11): 4097-102), as well as an AML mouse tumor model (Lopes de Menezes et al. (2005) Clin. Canc. Res. 11(14): 5281-91). All of the tumors from these cell models are characterized as having elevated pro-survival Bcl-2 family proteins, including Bcl-2, Bcl-xL, and Mcl-1.

Accordingly, the present invention relates to the use of pharmaceutical compositions comprising a compound of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ in affecting tumor regression in human lymphoid and myeloid cancers. These compounds are effective in inducing apoptosis selectively in hematological cancers due to the hyper-dependence of lymphoid and myeloid-derived tumor cells on the activity of the Bcl-2 family anti-apoptotic proteins.

The Bcl-2 protein is a member of an entire family, the Bcl-2 family of proteins, that have structurally similar genes and that share sequence homology and participate in the control of programmed cell death or “apoptosis” (Corey et al. (2002) Nat. Rev. Cancer 2: 647-656). Some members of this family (anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family proteins), such as Bcl-2 Bcl-xL, BcL-w, Bfl-1(A1) and Mcl-1, protect cells from apoptosis. These proteins share sequence homology in 4 α-helical regions called the Bcl-2 homology (BH)-domains 1-4 (BH1-BH4). Another class of this family (pro-apoptotic Bcl-2 proteins), such as Bax and Bak, promote apoptosis and share three of these domains, BH1-BH3. A third class of Bcl-2 family proteins, such as Bim, Bad, Hrk, Bid, Puma, Noxa, and Bmf, share only one region, the BH3 domain, and are referred to as “BH3-only proteins”. The BH3-only proteins are pro-apoptotic, and like Bax and Bak, the BH3-only proteins require an intact BH3 domain to promote apoptosis (Adams et al. (1998) Science 281: 1322-26).

A complex interplay of the pro-apoptotic and anti-apoptotic proteins affects the integrity of the outer membrane of the mitochondria (Green et al. (2004) Science 305: 626-29) either causing or preventing the release of certain molecules that activate the cysteine aspartyl proteases (caspases). The caspases are the eventual effectors of apoptosis (Salvesen (2002) Cell Death and Differentiation 9: 3-5). Bax and Bak are essential for release of these apoptosis promoting molecules from the mitochondria (Wei et al. (2001) Science 292: 727-30). The BH3-only proteins stimulate the activity of Bax and Bak while the anti-apoptotic proteins oppose their activity. Essentially all of these interactions occur by BH3 domain mediated binding (Chrittenden et al. (1995) EMBO J. 14:5589-96).

Anti-apoptotic family members Bcl-2, Bcl-xL and Mcl-1 are over-expressed in many types of cancers, including lymphomas, melanomas, myelomas, and cancer in prostate and colon (Kitada et al. (2002) Oncogene 21: 3459-74; Paul-Samojedny et al. (2005) Biochem. Biophys. Acta. 1741(1-2): 25-9; Pollack et al. (2003) Cancer 97(7): 1630-8; Tas et al. (2004) Melanoma Res. 14(6): 543-6). Animal model studies established that the continuous presence of anti-apoptotic family members is required for tumor survival and growth. Additionally, the pro-survival Bcl-2 proteins are important for the development of resistance of tumor cells to chemotherapies such as DNA damaging agents. The ratio of pro-apoptotic to anti-apoptotic family members has been shown in many cases to hold significant prognostic value for patient outcome. Over-expression of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family proteins has been reported in many of the hematopoietic malignancies. For example, increased expression of Bcl-2 protein that results from a translocation (t14; 18) of the BCL2 gene occurs in 80% to 90% of low-grade follicular non-Hodgkin lymphomas (NHLs) (Kitada et al. (2002) supra).

Three different strategies for countering the tumorigenic effects of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family proteins in NHL, CLL, MM, and other types of cancer include: (1) inhibiting gene transcription; (2) using antisense oligonucleotides to cause mRNA degradation; and (3) directly inhibiting the proteins with small-molecule drugs (reviewed in Reed et al. (2005) Blood 106: 408-418).

One of the desired characteristics of anti-tumor drugs is the ability to induce apoptosis in tumor cells and not in healthy cells. The conventional chemotherapy is mostly based on the evidence that proliferating cells are more sensitive to anticancer agents than non-dividing cells (Marchini et al. (2004) Curr. Med. Chem. Anticancer Agents 4(3): 247-6). For instance, generally tumor cells are more sensitive to apoptosis induction by microtubule poisons such as taxol and DNA damaging drugs such as doxorubicin than healthy cells (Abal et al. (2003) Curr. Cancer Drug Targets 3(3): 193-203).

However, in many types of cancer, certain of the anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family proteins are elevated which causes cells to be less responsive to such drugs. This is especially true in B-cell lymphomas and other hematological malignancies. In these cancers elevated levels of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family proteins correlate highly with the onset, maintenance of the disease state, and chemoresistance (Kitada et al. (2002) supra).

However, it was reported that cells over-expressing Bcl-xL exhibited increased sensitivity to an antimycin-A derivative compound that binds to and inhibits Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL (Manion et al. (2004) J. Biol. Chem. 279(3): 2159-65; Kim et al. (2001) Biochemistry 40: 4911-22). This finding has implications for the use of certain BH3 mimics as anti-tumor therapeutic compounds given that over-expression of Bcl-xL or Bcl-2 results in a general decrease in responsiveness to apoptotic cues and has been implicated in multi-drug resistance in cancer cells and carcinogenesis.

An understanding of the mechanisms for this observed change in response to Bcl-2 or Bcl-xL targeted compounds has been described (Letai (2005) J. Clin. Invest. 115: 2648-55). In that report it was argued that the cell context in which elevated anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 proteins are found determines the occurrence or the degree of “sensitization” to apoptotic cues. Most notably, it is the presence of BH3-only proteins bound to these anti-apoptotic proteins that cause sensitization to apoptotic cues. For instance, the presence of the BH3-only protein Bad (Bcl-2 associated death promoter) bound to Bcl-2 or Bcl-xL sensitizes rather than kills cells, as is the case when the BH3-only protein Bim (Bcl-2-like 11) binds (Letai et al. (2002) Cancer Cell 2(3): 183-92). Other arguments have been put forth that describe “hyper-dependence” on certain elevated anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 proteins in certain tumor cells (Kim et al. (2001) Biochemistry 40: 4911-22).

The functions that the individual Bcl-2 family proteins have during hematopoiesis have been demarcated genetically using transgenic mice. For example, mice deficient in Bcl-2 have no overt problems during lymphocyte differentiation but do have excess apoptosis in peripheral lymphocytes after antigenic stimuli (Veis et al. (1993) Cell 75: 229). Bcl-xL deficient mice are also viable but do show late maturation of erythroid cells (Wagner et al. (2000) Development 127: 4949-58).

Mcl-1 deficiency has a pronounced, perhaps principal role, in lymphocyte survival. Conditional knockouts have been used to determine the role of Mcl-1 in hematopoiesis and lymphocyte survival. It was determined that conditional deficiency of Mcl-1 results in apoptosis of differentiating lymphocytes and stops development of pre-B-cell and double negative T-cells as well as apoptosis in mature B and T lymphocytes (Rinkenberger et al. (2000) Genes Dev. 14: 23). These findings demonstrate a role for the anti-apoptotic form of Mcl-1 in the development and survival of B and T lymphocytes. These findings also indicate that Mcl-1 may be an ideal target for treating excess growth of lymphoid cells.

The clinical implication is underscored by the observation that elevated Mcl-1 expressed in its active anti-apoptotic full length form positively correlates with increasing grade of B-cell lymphomas and plasma cell myelomas (Cho-Vega et al. (2004) Hum. Pathol. 35 (9): 1095-100) as well as chronic lymphocytic leukemia (Petlickovski et al. (2005) Blood 105: 4820-28).

Targeted gene knockouts for different pro-apoptotic BH3-only members of the Bcl-2 family members have been assessed for disease correlation. Transgenic mice deficient in Bim have extensive myeloid proliferation and autoreactive T and B cells that have lost responsiveness to apoptosis inducing drugs (Bouillet et al. (1999) Science 286: 1735-38), while mice deficient in Bad display high incidence of diffuse large cell lymphoma (Ranger et al. (2003) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 100: 9324-29). Mice deficient in the pro-apoptotic BH3-only protein Bid demonstrated Hepatocarcinoma and a failure to respond to the death inducing cytokine fas (Yin et al. (1999) Nature 400: 886-891). Both of the pro-apoptotic BH3-only proteins Puma and Noxa were shown to be required for all p53-mediated apoptosis (Villunger et al. (2003) Science 302: 1036-1040).

Notably, conditional knockouts of the Mcl-1 gene caused profound reduction in B and T lymphocytes (Opferman et al. (2003) Nature 426(6967): 671-6), which is the opposite of a deficiency in the BH3-only protein Bim and in keeping with the understanding that Mcl-1 selectively inhibits the pro-apoptotic protein Bim.

B. Combination Therapy

Embodiments of the present invention also include the combination of one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ with other anti-tumor agents, such as proteosome inhibitors, to yield combination therapies. In some instances, these combination therapies may yield synergistic results as compared to the additive results of the component therapies when used alone. For example, these compounds may be particularly effective when used in combination with a class of therapeutics known as 26S proteosome inhibitors.

Compounds that have activity as 26S proteosome inhibitors have been suggested for use as anti-tumor therapeutics based on their ability to inhibit Nf-Kb signaling (Li et al. (1995) Biophys. Biochem. Res. Com. 215: 292-301). One such compound, the FDA approved drug Bortezomib (Velcade®), has been shown to cause elevated Mcl-1 in lymphocytes (Nencioni et al. (2005) Blood 105(8): 3255-62). Elevated Mcl-1 has been shown to be causal in the establishment and maintenance of lymphoid and myeloid tumors. The unwanted side effect of elevated Mcl-1 can be rectified by inhibiting Mcl-1 using the compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ will have utility in potentiating the effect of Bortezomib or other 26S proteosome inhibitors as anti-tumor therapeutics.

These observations suggest that elevated Mcl-1 may counteract Bortezomib (Velcade®) in CLL, AML, and certain NHL cells. Consistent with this, the cytotoxic effects of proteosome inhibitors are enhanced when Mcl-1 levels are contained at normal levels or reduced in a cell culture (Nencioni A et al. (2005) supra). This finding demonstrated that Mcl-1 accumulation is an unwanted molecular consequence of exposure to proteosome inhibitors.

C. Screening Methods

The present invention teaches a method for selecting appropriate BH3 mimic compounds in treating particular tumors. This selection is based on an understanding of the unique activity of compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ in mimicking particular BH3 domains. It is taught that compounds from this group that have unique activity against either all of the anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family proteins or a particular member of this family of proteins will be the basis for use against particular tumors. Expression levels of particular Bcl-2 family proteins can be assessed using standard assays, western blot, or immunohistological staining of biopsied tumor tissue. Following this assessment, compounds with activity against the elevated proteins in the tumor sample will be selected as appropriate therapeutics for treating that tumor.

It is of particular interest to establish the correlation of Mcl-1 expression levels to the occurrence of tumors. Based on the discovery that compounds A or II-19 inhibit Mcl-1 binding (see Example 2 and Example 3 below), it may be that cells that are hyper-dependent on Mcl-1, as a consequence of elevated Mcl-1, or elevated levels of Mcl-1 complexed with Bim, Bid or Noxa, in the disease state, will be sensitized to compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ or other BH3 mimic compounds that are shown to inhibit Mcl-1.

D. Administration and Dosage

i. Routes of Administration

The pharmaceutical compositions comprising a compound of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ can be administered by any known administration method known to a person skilled in the art. Examples of routes of administration include but are not limited to oral, parenteral, intraperitoneal, intravenous, intraarterial, transdermal, topical, sublingual, intramuscular, rectal, transbuccal, intranasal, liposomal, via inhalation, vaginal, intraoccular, via local delivery by catheter or stent, subcutaneous, intraadiposal, intraarticular, intrathecal, or in a controlled or extended release dosage form. The pharmaceutical compositions comprising a compound of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ can be administered in accordance with any dose and dosing schedule that achieves a dose effective to treat disease.

The route of administration of pharmaceutical compositions comprising a compound of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ can be independent of the route of administration of any additional anti-cancer agents that are used. Thus, at least one of the compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ can be administered, for example, orally or by intravenous delivery while another compound or other agent (anti-cancer agent) can be administered, for example, orally, parenterally, intraperitoneally, intravenously, intraarterially, transdermally, sublingually, intramuscularly, rectally, transbuccally, intranasally, liposomally, via inhalation, vaginally, intraoccularly, via local delivery by catheter or stent, subcutaneously, intraadiposally, intraarticularly, intrathecally, or in a controlled or extended release dosage form.

As examples, the compounds of the invention can be administered in oral forms, for example, as tablets, capsules (each of which includes sustained release or timed release formulations), pills, powders, granules, elixirs, tinctures, suspensions, syrups, and emulsions. Likewise, the compounds can be administered by intravenous (e.g., bolus or infusion), intraperitoneal, subcutaneous, intramuscular, or other routes using forms well known to those of ordinary skill in the pharmaceutical arts. Particularly useful routes of administration of the compounds are oral administration and intravenous delivery.

The compounds can also be administered in the form of a depot injection or implant preparation, which may be formulated in such a manner as to permit a sustained release of the active ingredient. The active ingredient can be compressed into pellets or small cylinders and implanted subcutaneously or intramuscularly as depot injections or implants. Implants may employ inert materials such as biodegradable polymers or synthetic silicones, for example, Silastic, silicone rubber or other polymers manufactured by the Dow-Corning Corporation.

The compounds can also be delivered by the use of monoclonal antibodies as individual carriers to which the compound molecules are coupled.

The compounds can also be prepared with soluble polymers as targetable drug carriers. Such polymers can include polyvinlypyrrolidone, pyran copolymer, polyhydroxy-propyl-methacrylamide-phenol, polyhydroxyethyl-aspartamide-phenol, or polyethyleneoxide-polylysine substituted with palmitoyl residues. Furthermore, the compounds can be prepared with biodegradable polymers useful in achieving controlled release of a drug, for example, polylactic acid, polyglycolic acid, copolymers of polylactic and polyglycolic acid, polyepsilon caprolactone, polyhydroxy butyric acid, polyorthoesters, polyacetals, polydihydropyrans, polycyanoacrylates and cross linked or amphipathic block copolymers of hydrogels.

In a specific embodiment, the compounds can be administered orally in a gelatin capsule, which can comprise excipients such as microcrystalline cellulose, croscarmellose sodium and magnesium stearate. For example, an embodiment can include 200 mg of solid compound with 89.5 mg of microcrystalline cellulose, 9 mg of sodium croscarmellose, and 1.5 mg of magnesium stearate contained in a gelatin capsule.

ii. Dosages and Dosage Schedules

The dosage regimen utilizing the compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ can be selected in accordance with a variety of factors including type, species, age, weight, and sex of the patient; the type of disease being treated; the severity (i.e., stage) of the disease to be treated; the route of administration; the renal and hepatic function of the patient; and the particular compound or salt thereof employed. A dosage regimen can be used, for example, to prevent, inhibit (fully or partially), or arrest the progress of the disease.

In accordance with the invention, pharmaceutical compositions comprising a compound of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ can be administered by continuous or intermittent dosages. For example, intermittent administration of pharmaceutical compositions comprising a compound of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ may be administered one to six days per week or it may be administered in cycles with rest periods in between the cycles (e.g., daily administration for two to eight consecutive weeks, then a rest period with no administration for up to one week between treatments) or it may be administered on alternate days.

For example, the compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ can be administered in a total daily dose of up to 800 mg. The compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ can be administered once daily (QD), or divided into multiple daily doses such as twice daily (BID), and three times daily (TID). The compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′, can be administered at a total daily dosage of up to 800 mg, for example, about 200 mg, 300 mg, 400 mg, 600 mg, or 800 mg, which can be administered in one daily dose or can be divided into multiple daily doses as described above. In specific aspects, the administration is oral or by intravenous delivery.

In one embodiment, the compound is administered once daily at a dose of about 200-600 mg. In another embodiment, the compound is administered twice daily at a dose of about 200-400 mg. In another embodiment, the compound is administered twice daily at a dose of about 200-400 mg intermittently, for example three, four or five days per week. In one embodiment, the daily dose is about 200 mg which can be administered once-daily, twice-daily, or three-times daily. In one embodiment, the daily dose is about 300 mg which can be administered once-daily, twice-daily, or three-times daily. In one embodiment, the daily dose is about 400 mg which can be administered once-daily, twice-daily, or three-times daily.

Compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′, can be administered in accordance with any dose and dosing schedule that achieves a dose effective to treat cancer. Each compound can be administered in a total daily dose that may vary from patient to patient, and may be administered at varying dosage schedules. For example, a compound of the invention can be administered to the patient at a total daily dosage of between 25-4000 mg/m². In particular, compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ can be administered in a total daily dose of up to 800 mg, especially by oral or intravenous administration, once, twice, or three times daily, continuously (every day) or intermittently (e.g., 3-5 days a week).

In addition, the compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ may be administered according to any of the schedules described above, consecutively for a few weeks, followed by a rest period.

In one embodiment, the patient can receive intravenously or subcutaneously the compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ in quantities sufficient to deliver between about 3-1500 mg/m² per day, for example, about 3, 30, 60, 90, 180, 300, 600, 900, 1200 or 1500 mg/m² per day. Such quantities may be administered in a number of suitable ways, e.g. large volumes of low concentrations of the compounds or Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ can be used during one extended period of time or several times a day. The quantities can be administered for one or more consecutive days, intermittent days, or a combination thereof per week (7 day period). Alternatively, low volumes of high concentrations of the compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ can be used during a short period of time, e.g. once a day for one or more days either consecutively, intermittently or a combination thereof per week (7 day period). For example, a dose of 300 mg/m² per day can be administered for 5 consecutive days for a total of about 1500 mg/m² per treatment. In another dosing regimen, the number of consecutive days can also be 5, with treatment lasting for 2 or 3 consecutive weeks for a total of about 3000 mg/m² or about 4500 mg/m² total treatment.

Typically, an intravenous formulation may be prepared which contains a concentration of compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ of between about 1.0 mg/mL to about 10 mg/mL, e.g. about 2.0 mg/mL, 3.0 mg/mL, 4.0 mg/mL, 5.0 mg/mL, 6.0 mg/mL, 7.0 mg/mL, 8.0 mg/mL, 9.0 mg/mL and 10 mg/mL and administered in amounts to achieve the doses described above. In one example, a sufficient volume of intravenous formulation can be administered to a patient in a day such that the total dose for the day is between about 300 and about 1500 mg/m².

Subcutaneous formulations can be prepared according to procedures well known in the art at a pH in the range between about 5 and about 12, which include suitable buffers and are tonicity agents, as described below. They can be formulated to deliver a daily dose of any of compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ in one or more daily subcutaneous administrations, for example, one, two or three times each day.

It is apparent to a person skilled in the art that any one or more of the specific dosages and dosage schedules of the compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ are also applicable to any one or more of the anti-cancer agents to be used in a combination treatment. Moreover, the specific dosage and dosage schedule of the compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ can further vary, and the optimal dose, dosing schedule, and route of administration can be determined based upon the specific drug combination that is being used. Further, the various modes of administration, dosages, and dosing schedules described herein merely set forth specific embodiments and should not be construed as limiting the broad scope of the invention. Any permutations, variations, and combinations of the dosages and dosing schedules are included within the scope of the present invention.

iii. Formulation

An “effective amount” of compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ is the quantity which, when administered to a subject having a disease or disorder, results in regression of the disease or disorder in the subject. Thus, an effective amount of a compound of the disclosed invention is the quantity which, when administered to a subject having a cell proliferation disorder, results in, for example, regression of cell growth or cell death in a subject. The amount of the disclosed compound to be administered to a subject will depend on the particular disorder, the mode of administration, co-administered compounds, if any, and the characteristics of the subject, such as general health, other diseases, age, sex, genotype, body weight and tolerance to drugs. The skilled artisan will be able to determine appropriate dosages depending on these and other factors.

As used herein, the term “effective amount” refers to an amount of a compound, or a combination of compounds, of the present invention effective when administered alone or in combination as an anti-proliferative agent. For example, an effective amount refers to an amount of the compound present in a formulation or on a medical device given to a recipient patient or subject sufficient to elicit biological activity, for example, anti-proliferative activity, such as for example, anti-cancer activity or anti-neoplastic activity. The combination of compounds optionally is a synergistic combination. Synergy, as described, for example, by Chou and Talalay (1984) Adv. Enzyme Regul. 22: 27-55, occurs when the effect of the compounds when administered in combination is greater than the additive effect of the compounds when administered alone as a single agent. In general, a synergistic effect is most clearly demonstrated at sub-optimal concentrations of the compounds. Synergy can be in terms of lower cytotoxicity, or increased anti-proliferative effect, or some other beneficial effect of the combination compared with the individual components.

A “therapeutically effective amount” means the amount of a compound that, when administered to a mammal for treating a disease, is sufficient to effect such treatment for the disease. The “therapeutically effective amount” will vary depending on the compound, the disease and its severity and the age, weight, etc., of the mammal to be treated.

A therapeutically effective amount of one or more of the compounds can be formulated with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier for administration to a human or an animal. Accordingly, the compounds or the formulations can be administered, for example, via oral, parenteral, or topical routes, to provide an effective amount of the compound. In alternative embodiments, the compounds prepared in accordance with the present invention can be used to coat or impregnate a medical device, e.g., a stent.

The term “prophylactically effective amount” means an effective amount of a compound or compounds, of the present invention that is administered to prevent or reduce the risk of unwanted cellular proliferation.

“Pharmacological effect” as used herein encompasses effects produced in the subject that achieve the intended purpose of a therapy. In one preferred embodiment, a pharmacological effect means that primary indications of the subject being treated are prevented, alleviated, or reduced. For example, a pharmacological effect would be one that results in the prevention, alleviation or reduction of primary indications in a treated subject. In another preferred embodiment, a pharmacological effect means that disorders or symptoms of the primary indications of the subject being treated are prevented, alleviated, or reduced. For example, a pharmacological effect would be one that results in the prevention or reduction of primary indications in a treated subject.

A “pharmaceutical composition” is a formulation containing the compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ in a form suitable for administration to a subject. In one embodiment, the pharmaceutical composition is in bulk or in unit dosage form. The unit dosage form is any of a variety of forms, including, for example, a capsule, an IV bag, a tablet, a single pump on an aerosol inhaler, or a vial. The quantity of active ingredient (e.g., a formulation of the disclosed compound or salt, hydrate, solvate, or isomer thereof) in a unit dose of composition is an effective amount and is varied according to the particular treatment involved. One skilled in the art will appreciate that it is sometimes necessary to make routine variations to the dosage depending on the age and condition of the patient. The dosage will also depend on the route of administration. A variety of routes are contemplated, including oral, pulmonary, rectal, parenteral, transdermal, subcutaneous, intravenous, intramuscular, intraperitoneal, inhalational, buccal, sublingual, intrapleural, intrathecal, intranasal, and the like. Dosage forms for the topical or transdermal administration of a compound of this invention include powders, sprays, ointments, pastes, creams, lotions, gels, solutions, patches and inhalants. In a preferred embodiment, the active compound is mixed under sterile conditions with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, and with any preservatives, buffers, or propellants that are required.

As used herein, the phrase “pharmaceutically acceptable” refers to those compounds, materials, compositions, carriers, and/or dosage forms which are, within the scope of sound medical judgment, suitable for use in contact with the tissues of human beings and animals without excessive toxicity, irritation, allergic response, or other problem or complication, commensurate with a reasonable benefit/risk ratio.

“Pharmaceutically acceptable excipient” means an excipient that is useful in preparing a pharmaceutical composition that is generally safe, non-toxic and neither biologically nor otherwise undesirable, and includes excipient that is acceptable for veterinary use as well as human pharmaceutical use. A “pharmaceutically acceptable excipient” as used in the specification and claims includes both one and more than one such excipient.

The compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ are capable of further forming salts. All of these forms are also contemplated within the scope of the claimed invention.

“Pharmaceutically acceptable salt” of a compound means a salt that is pharmaceutically acceptable and that possesses the desired pharmacological activity of the parent compound. As used herein, “pharmaceutically acceptable salts” refer to derivatives of the disclosed compounds wherein the parent compound is modified by making acid or base salts thereof. Examples of pharmaceutically acceptable salts include, but are not limited to, mineral or organic acid salts of basic residues such as amines, alkali or organic salts of acidic residues such as carboxylic acids, and the like. The pharmaceutically acceptable salts include the conventional non-toxic salts or the quaternary ammonium salts of the parent compound formed, for example, from non-toxic inorganic or organic acids. For example, such conventional non-toxic salts include, but are not limited to, those derived from inorganic and organic acids selected from 2-acetoxybenzoic, 2-hydroxyethane sulfonic, acetic, ascorbic, benzene sulfonic, benzoic, bicarbonic, carbonic, citric, edetic, ethane disulfonic, 1,2-ethane sulfonic, fumaric, glucoheptonic, gluconic, glutamic, glycolic, glycollyarsanilic, hexylresorcinic, hydrabamic, hydrobromic, hydrochloric, hydroiodic, hydroxymaleic, hydroxynaphthoic, isethionic, lactic, lactobionic, lauryl sulfonic, maleic, malic, mandelic, methane sulfonic, napsylic, nitric, oxalic, pamoic, pantothenic, phenylacetic, phosphoric, polygalacturonic, propionic, salicyclic, stearic, subacetic, succinic, sulfamic, sulfanilic, sulfuric, tannic, tartaric, toluene sulfonic, and the commonly occurring amine acids, e.g., glycine, alanine, phenylalanine, arginine, etc.

Other examples include hexanoic acid, cyclopentane propionic acid, pyruvic acid, malonic acid, 3-(4-hydroxybenzoyl)benzoic acid, cinnamic acid, 4-chlorobenzenesulfonic acid, 2-naphthalenesulfonic acid, 4-toluenesulfonic acid, camphorsulfonic acid, 4-methylbicyclo-[2.2.2]-oct-2-ene-1-carboxylic acid, 3-phenylpropionic acid, trimethylacetic acid, tertiary butylacetic acid, muconic acid, and the like. The invention also encompasses salts formed when an acidic proton present in the parent compound either is replaced by a metal ion, e.g., an alkali metal ion, an alkaline earth ion, or an aluminum ion; or coordinates with an organic base such as ethanolamine, diethanolamine, triethanolamine, tromethamine, N-methylglucamine, and the like.

It should be understood that all references to pharmaceutically acceptable salts include solvent addition forms (solvates) or crystal forms (polymorphs) as defined herein, of the same salt.

The pharmaceutically acceptable salts of the compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ can be synthesized from a parent compound that contains a basic or acidic moiety by conventional chemical methods. Generally, such salts can be prepared by reacting the free acid or base forms of these compounds with a stoichiometric amount of the appropriate base or acid in water or in an organic solvent, or in a mixture of the two; generally, non-aqueous media like ether, ethyl acetate, ethanol, isopropanol, or acetonitrile are preferred. Lists of suitable salts are found in Remington's Pharmaceutical Sciences, 18th ed. (Mack Publishing Company, 1990). For example, salts can include, but are not limited to, the hydrochloride and acetate salts of the aliphatic amine-containing, hydroxylamine-containing and imine-containing compounds of the present invention.

The compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ can also be prepared as esters, for example pharmaceutically acceptable esters. For example a carboxylic acid functional group in a compound can be converted to its corresponding ester, e.g., a methyl, ethyl, or other ester. Also, an alcohol group in a compound can be converted to its corresponding ester, e.g., an acetate, propionate, or other ester.

The compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ can also be prepared as prodrugs, for example pharmaceutically acceptable prodrugs. The terms “pro-drug” and “prodrug” are used interchangeably herein and refer to any compound that releases an active parent drug in vivo. Since prodrugs are known to enhance numerous desirable qualities of pharmaceuticals (e.g., solubility, bioavailability, manufacturing, etc.) the compounds of the present invention can be delivered in prodrug form. Thus, the present invention is intended to cover prodrugs of the presently claimed compounds, methods of delivering the same and compositions containing the same. “Prodrugs” are intended to include any covalently bonded carriers that release an active parent drug of the present invention in vivo when such prodrug is administered to a subject. Prodrugs of the present invention are prepared by modifying functional groups present in the compound in such a way that the modifications are cleaved, either in routine manipulation or in vivo, to the parent compound. Prodrugs include compounds of the present invention wherein a hydroxyl, amino, sulfhydryl, carboxyl, or carbonyl group is bonded to any group that may be cleaved in vivo to form a free hydroxyl, free amino, free sulfhydryl, free carboxyl or free carbonyl group, respectively.

Examples of prodrugs include, but are not limited to, esters (e.g., acetate, dialkylaminoacetates, formates, phosphates, sulfates, and benzoate derivatives) and carbamates (e.g., N,N-dimethylaminocarbonyl) of hydroxyl functional groups, ester groups (e.g. ethyl esters, morpholinoethanol esters) of carboxyl functional groups, N-acyl derivatives (e.g. N-acetyl), N-Mannich bases, Schiff bases and enaminones of amino functional groups, oximes, acetals, ketals and enol esters of ketone and aldehyde functional groups in compounds of the invention including compounds A, or B or derivatives, and the like, (see, Bundegaard, H. “Design of Prodrugs” p 1-92, Elesevier, New York-Oxford (1985)).

All percentages and ratios used herein, unless otherwise indicated, are by weight.

“Combination therapy” (or “co-therapy”) includes the administration of compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ and at least a second agent as part of a specific treatment regimen intended to provide the beneficial effect from the co-action of these therapeutic agents. The beneficial effect of the combination includes, but is not limited to, pharmacokinetic or pharmacodynamic co-action resulting from the combination of therapeutic agents. Administration of these therapeutic agents in combination typically is carried out over a defined time period (usually minutes, hours, days or weeks depending upon the combination selected). “Combination therapy” may, but generally is not, intended to encompass the administration of two or more of these therapeutic agents as part of separate monotherapy regimens that incidentally and arbitrarily result in the combinations of the present invention.

“Combination therapy” is intended to embrace administration of these therapeutic agents in a sequential manner, that is, wherein each therapeutic agent is administered at a different time, as well as administration of these therapeutic agents, or at least two of the therapeutic agents, in a substantially simultaneous manner. Substantially simultaneous administration can be accomplished, for example, by administering to the subject a single capsule having a fixed ratio of each therapeutic agent or in multiple, single capsules for each of the therapeutic agents. Sequential or substantially simultaneous administration of each therapeutic agent can be effected by any appropriate route including, but not limited to, oral routes, intravenous routes, intramuscular routes, and direct absorption through mucous membrane tissues. The therapeutic agents can be administered by the same route or by different routes. For example, a first therapeutic agent of the combination selected may be administered by intravenous injection while the other therapeutic agents of the combination may be administered orally. Alternatively, for example, all therapeutic agents may be administered orally or all therapeutic agents may be administered by intravenous injection. The sequence in which the therapeutic agents are administered is not narrowly critical.

“Combination therapy” also embraces the administration of the therapeutic agents as described above in further combination with other biologically active ingredients and non-drug therapies (e.g., surgery or radiation treatment). Where the combination therapy further comprises a non-drug treatment, the non-drug treatment may be conducted at any suitable time so long as a beneficial effect from the co-action of the combination of the therapeutic agents and non-drug treatment is achieved. For example, in appropriate cases, the beneficial effect is still achieved when the non-drug treatment is temporally removed from the administration of the therapeutic agents, perhaps by days or even weeks.

Throughout the description, where compositions are described as having, including, or comprising specific components, it is contemplated that compositions also consist essentially of, or consist of, the recited components. Similarly, where processes are described as having, including, or comprising specific process steps, the processes also consist essentially of, or consist of, the recited processing steps. Further, it should be understood that the order of steps or order for performing certain actions are immaterial so long as the invention remains operable. Moreover, two or more steps or actions may be conducted simultaneously.

The compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′, or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, can be administered orally, nasally, transdermally, pulmonary, inhalationally, buccally, sublingually, intraperintoneally, subcutaneously, intramuscularly, intravenously, rectally, intrapleurally, intrathecally and parenterally. In certain embodiments, the compound is administered orally. One skilled in the art will recognize the advantages of certain routes of administration.

The dosage regimen utilizing the compounds is selected in accordance with a variety of factors including type, species, age, weight, sex and medical condition of the patient; the severity of the condition to be treated; the route of administration; the renal and hepatic function of the patient; and the particular compound or salt thereof employed. An ordinarily skilled physician or veterinarian can readily determine and prescribe the effective amount of the drug required to prevent, counter, or arrest the progress of the condition.

Techniques for formulation and administration of the disclosed compounds of the invention can be found in Remington: the Science and Practice of Pharmacy, 19^(th) edition, Mack Publishing Co., Easton, Pa. (1995). In an embodiment, the compounds described herein, and the pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, are used in pharmaceutical preparations in combination with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or diluent. Suitable pharmaceutically acceptable carriers include inert solid fillers or diluents and sterile aqueous or organic solutions. The compounds will be present in such pharmaceutical compositions in amounts sufficient to provide the desired dosage amount in the range described herein.

In one embodiment, compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ are prepared for oral administration, wherein the disclosed compounds or salts thereof are combined with a suitable solid or liquid carrier or diluent to form capsules, tablets, pills, powders, syrups, solutions, suspensions and the like.

The tablets, pills, capsules, and the like contain from about 1 to about 99 weight percent of the active ingredient and a binder such as gum tragacanth, acacias, corn starch or gelatin; excipients such as dicalcium phosphate; a disintegrating agent such as corn starch, potato starch or alginic acid; a lubricant such as magnesium stearate; and/or a sweetening agent such as sucrose, lactose, saccharin, xylitol, and the like. When a dosage unit form is a capsule, it often contains, in addition to materials of the above type, a liquid carrier such as fatty oil.

In some embodiments, various other materials are present as coatings or to modify the physical form of the dosage unit. For instance, in some embodiments, tablets are coated with shellac, sugar or both. In some embodiments, a syrup or elixir contains, in addition to the active ingredient, sucrose as a sweetening agent, methyl and propylparabens as preservatives, a dye and a flavoring such as cherry or orange flavor, and the like.

For some embodiments relating to parental administration, the compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ or salts, solvates, tautomers or polymorphs thereof, can be combined with sterile aqueous or organic media to form injectable solutions or suspensions. Injectable compositions are preferably aqueous isotonic solutions or suspensions. The compositions may be sterilized and/or contain adjuvants, such as preserving, stabilizing, wetting or emulsifying agents, solution promoters, salts for regulating the osmotic pressure and/or buffers. In addition, they may also contain other therapeutically valuable substances. The compositions are prepared according to conventional mixing, granulating or coating methods, respectively, and contain about 0.1 to 75%, preferably about 1 to 50%, of the active ingredient.

For example, injectable solutions are produced using solvents such as sesame or peanut oil or aqueous propylene glycol, as well as aqueous solutions of water-soluble pharmaceutically-acceptable salts of the compounds. In some embodiments, dispersions are prepared in glycerol, liquid polyethylene glycols and mixtures thereof in oils. Under ordinary conditions of storage and use, these preparations contain a preservative to prevent the growth of microorganisms. The terms “parenteral administration” and “administered parenterally” as used herein means modes of administration other than enteral and topical administration, usually by injection, and includes, without limitation, intravenous, intramuscular, intraarterial, intrathecal, intracapsular, intraorbital, intracardiac, intradermal, intraperitoneal, transtracheal, subcutaneous, subcuticular, intraarticular, subcapsular, subarachnoid, intraspinal and intrasternal injection and infusion.

For rectal administration, suitable pharmaceutical compositions are, for example, topical preparations, suppositories or enemas. Suppositories are advantageously prepared from fatty emulsions or suspensions. The compositions may be sterilized and/or contain adjuvants, such as preserving, stabilizing, wetting or emulsifying agents, solution promoters, salts for regulating the osmotic pressure and/or buffers. In addition, they may also contain other therapeutically valuable substances. The compositions are prepared according to conventional mixing, granulating or coating methods, respectively, and contain about 0.1 to 75%, preferably about 1 to 50%, of the active ingredient.

In some embodiments, the compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ are formulated to deliver the active agent by pulmonary administration, e.g., administration of an aerosol formulation containing the active agent from, for example, a manual pump spray, nebulizer or pressurized metered-dose inhaler. In some embodiments, suitable formulations of this type also include other agents, such as antistatic agents, to maintain the disclosed compounds as effective aerosols.

A drug delivery device for delivering aerosols comprises a suitable aerosol canister with a metering valve containing a pharmaceutical aerosol formulation as described and an actuator housing adapted to hold the canister and allow for drug delivery. The canister in the drug delivery device has a headspace representing greater than about 15% of the total volume of the canister. Often, the polymer intended for pulmonary administration is dissolved, suspended or emulsified in a mixture of a solvent, surfactant and propellant. The mixture is maintained under pressure in a canister that has been sealed with a metering valve.

For nasal administration, either a solid or a liquid carrier can be used. The solid carrier includes a coarse powder having particle size in the range of, for example, from about 20 to about 500 microns and such formulation is administered by rapid inhalation through the nasal passages. In some embodiments where the liquid carrier is used, the formulation is administered as a nasal spray or drops and includes oil or aqueous solutions of the active ingredients.

Also contemplated are formulations that are rapidly dispersing dosage forms, also known as “flash dose” forms. In particular, some embodiments of the present invention are formulated as compositions that release their active ingredients within a short period of time, for example, typically less than about five minutes, preferably less than about ninety seconds, more preferably in less than about thirty seconds and most preferably in less than about ten or fifteen seconds. Such formulations are suitable for administration to a subject via a variety of routes, for example by insertion into a body cavity or application to a moist body surface or open wound.

Typically, a “flash dosage” is a solid dosage form that is administered orally, which rapidly disperses in the mouth, and hence does not require great effort in swallowing and allows the compound to be rapidly ingested or absorbed through the oral mucosal membranes. In some embodiments, suitable rapidly dispersing dosage forms are also used in other applications, including the treatment of wounds and other bodily insults and diseased states in which release of the medicament by externally supplied moisture is not possible.

“Flash dose” forms are known in the art; see for example, effervescent dosage forms and quick release coatings of insoluble microparticles in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,578,322 and 5,607,697; freeze dried foams and liquids in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,642,903 and 5,631,023; melt spinning of dosage forms in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,855,326, 5,380,473 and 5,518,730; solid, free-form fabrication in U.S. Pat. No. 6,471,992; saccharide-based carrier matrix and a liquid binder in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,587,172, 5,616,344, 6,277,406, and 5,622,719; and other forms known to the art.

The compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ can also be also formulated as “pulsed release” formulations, in which the compound is released from the pharmaceutical compositions in a series of releases (i.e., pulses). The compounds are also formulated as “sustained release” formulations in which the compound is continuously released from the pharmaceutical composition over a prolonged period.

Also contemplated are formulations, for example, liquid formulations, including cyclic or acyclic encapsulating or solvating agents, for example, cyclodextrins, polyethers, or polysaccharides (e.g., methylcellulose), or polyanionic β-cyclodextrin derivatives with a sodium sulfonate salt group separate from the lipophilic cavity by an alkyl ether spacer group or polysaccharides. In one embodiment, the agent can be polyanionic β-cyclodextrin derivative with a sodium sulfonate salt separated from the lipophilic cavity by a butyl ether spacer group, e.g., CAPTISOL® (CyDex, Overland, and KS). One skilled in the art can evaluate suitable agent/disclosed compound formulation ratios by preparing a solution of the agent in water, e.g., a 40% by weight solution; preparing serial dilutions, e.g. to make solutions of 20%, 10, 5%, 2.5%, 0% (control), and the like; adding an excess (compared to the amount that can be solubilized by the agent) of the disclosed compound; mixing under appropriate conditions, e.g., heating, agitation, sonication, and the like; centrifuging or filtering the resulting mixtures to obtain clear solutions; and analyzing the solutions for concentration of the disclosed compound.

The disclosure is further illustrated by the following examples, which are not to be construed as limiting this disclosure in scope or spirit to the specific procedures herein described. It is to be understood that the examples are provided to illustrate certain embodiments and that no limitation to the scope of the disclosure is intended thereby. It is to be further understood that resort may be had to various other embodiments, modifications, and equivalents thereof which may suggest themselves to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure and/or scope of the appended claims.

EXAMPLES Example 1 Synthesis of Compound II-19

The starting compound (lomofungin) was dissolved in DMSO and irradiated with UV light for 24 hours. Dimerization was monitored by LC-MS on a C18 column eluted with a methanol gradient (0-90% methanol with 0.1% trifluoroacetic acid).

The starting material (lomofungin) was characterized by NMR and LC/MS. NMR (DMSO-d₆) gave peaks at 3.99 ppm (3H), 6.84 ppm (1H), 7.27 (1H); 8.17 (1H), 10.93 (1H), and 11.10(1H). LC-MS peak exhibited peaks at 315 (MH⁺) and 316 (MH₂ ⁺).

Analysis of Compound II-19

Compound II-19 was characterized by NMR and LC/MS. NMR (DMSO-d₆) gave peaks at 3.99 ppm (3H), 7.34 (1H); 8.21 (1H), 11.07 (1H), and 11.21(1H). LC-MS peak exhibited peaks at 627 (MH⁺) and 628 (MH²⁺).

Example 2 Preferential inhibition of Mcl-1 by Compound A

The expression level of Mcl-1 correlates directly to chemo-sensitivity and survival of certain non-Hodgkin's lymphomas (Petlickovski et al. (2005) Blood 105(12): 4820-7) as well as prostate cancer (Royuela et al. (2001) Eur. Cytokine Netw. 12(4): 654-63), liver cancer (Fleischer et al. (2006) Int. J. Oncol. 28(1): 25-32) and other cancers. Mcl-1 is therefore an ideal target for treating these cancers. This example shows that the BH3 mimic compound A inhibits the binding of the BH3 domain of the Bcl-2 family protein Bim to Mcl-1 and, to a lesser extent, Bcl-xL. Accordingly, this example indicates that compound A may be particularly effective in treating certain hematological malignancies that are affected principally by the Bcl-2 family protein Mcl-1.

Materials and Methods

In this example, a Fluorescence Polarization (FP) assay was used to demonstrate the activity of the BH3 mimic compounds A in inhibiting Mcl-1 as well as Bcl-xL binding to Bim BH3 as described in Degterev et al. (2001) Nature Cell Biology 3: 173-182.

A nineteen amino acid peptide, corresponding to the BH3 domain of Bim, with the sequence FITC-GGGIAQELRRIGDEFNAY (SEQ ID NO: 1) was labeled with the fluorophore FITC according to the manufacturer's instructions (Molecular Probes, Eugene, Oreg.). This sequence was identified as being able to bind to purified Bcl-xL protein (Sattler et al. (1997) Science 275(5302): 983-86) and to have biological activity in cells (Holinger et al. J. Biol. Chem. 274: 13298-1330).

In addition, recombinant GST-Mcl-1 and GST-Bcl-xL fusion proteins were generated in E. coli and purified using glutathione-sepharose beads using conventional techniques known to those skilled in the fields of biochemistry and molecular biology. (methods for preparation are described in Strategies for Protein Purification and Characterization, Marshak, D, Kadonga, J, Burgess R, Knuth, M, Brennan, W, Sue-Hwa, L, CSH press, Cold Spring Harbor, N.Y.). Binding of the recombinant proteins to the fluorescent Bim BH3 domain was confirmed by titration of increasing concentrations of the recombinant proteins against a constant amount of labeled Bim peptide (16.65 nM). Quantitation of binding was accomplished by FP assay with mP measurements made on the Analyst-GT reader (Molecular Devices, Sunnyvale, Calif.).

Further, the ability of compound A, to disrupt the interaction between the fluorescent Bim BH3 peptide and the two fusion proteins was assessed using a fluorescence polarization assay. The Bim peptide (in solution at 4 nano-Molar) and either GST-Mcl-1 (in solution at 12.5 nM) or GST-Bcl-xL (in solution at 11.8 nM) were first combined together in phosphate buffered saline buffer, and then the compound solution in DMSO was added to final concentrations ranging from 10 μM to 0.1 nM). Normally the unbound Bim polypeptide results in polarization of 5 mP units. Upon binding of the GST-Bcl-xL and GST-Mcl-1 fusion protein, polarization increased to 100 mP units.

Results

Data from Fluorescence polarization studies comparing binding of the Bim-BH3-FITC peptide to soluble Mcl-1-GSTand Bcl-xL-GST proteins exposed to compound A in concentrations ranging from 10 μM to 1 nM is shown in FIG. 1. Y axis represents % shift in polarization (mp units). Compound A was effective at inhibiting the Bim-BH3 peptide from the Bcl-xL with a drug concentration that provokes a response halfway between baseline and maximum (IC₅₀) of 480 nM for Mcl-1. Also, the compound was able to inhibit the binding of the Bim BH3 peptide from the Bcl-xL protein with an IC₅₀ of >16,000 nM (FIG. 1). As seen in FIG. 1, Bim BH3/Mcl-1 inhibition was significantly more pronounced than Bim/Bcl-xL. This indicates a highly preferential activity of the compound A which has important implications for the therapeutic value of this compound.

Example 3 Inhibition of Mcl-1 by Compound II-19

The compound II-19 is assessed for ability to inhibit binding of the BH3 peptide of Bim to Mcl-1 and Bcl-xL. The activity for blocking Bim BH3 binding to both Bcl-xL and Mcl-1 fusion proteins are compared as in Example 2.

Materials and Methods

Experiments are performed using the fluorescence polarization assay as described in Example 2. Either Bcl-xL or Mcl-1 fusion proteins were titrated and maximum mp shift indicate binding concentrations for drug titration studies, as described in Example 2. Compound II-19, was titrated from 10 μM to 0.1 nM in 2 fold serial dilution into the peptide/protein solution. The IC₅₀ for blocking each BH3 peptide from Mcl-1 are assessed using FP, as described in Example 2.

Results

Data from Fluorescence polarization studies comparing binding of the Bim-BH3-FITC peptide to soluble Mcl-1-GSTand Bcl-xL-GST proteins exposed to compound II-19 in concentrations ranging from 10 μM to 1 nM is shown in FIG. 2. Y axis represents % shift in polarization (mp units). Compound II-19 with a drug concentration that provokes a response halfway between baseline and maximum (IC₅₀) of 7 nM for Mcl-1 and 15 nM for Bcl-xL (FIG. 2). Also compound II-19 has a 2-fold preference for inhibition of Mcl-1 vs. Bcl-xL as seen in FIG. 2. The compound II-19 is more active against Mcl-1 than any other reported compound. This improved binding is an advantage for treating cancers therapeutically.

Example 4 Activity of Compounds A, II-19, and Obatoclax in Killing Human Tumor Cell Lines

This example anticipates the activity of the compounds A, and II-19, and derivatives, in killing certain human tumor-derived cell lines grown in culture. Leukemia and myeloid cells were used to assess cell tumor killing activity of the compounds A, and II-19, and certain derivatives.

Materials and Methods

Cell Culture

The lymphoid derived cell lines DHL-6 and DHL-10 were obtained from Anthony Letai of the Dana Farber Cancer Research Institute, Boston, Mass. The myeloid derived cell line NCI-H929 was obtained from the NIH/NCI cell repository. AML-3 cells were obtained from Dr. Michael Andreef (MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Tex.). Cells were grown in RPMI 1640 medium (GIBCO-BRL) supplemented with Pen-strep-glutamine (Gibco 10378) and 5% fetal bovine serum.

EC₅₀ Assays

Cells were expanded in tissue culture in appropriate media and then sub-cultured into 96-well plates at a seeding density of 20,000-40,000 cells per well, and cells were treated with one or more compounds that were titrated into appropriate medium with FCS. Cell lines were treated with compound A at concentrations ranging from 25 μM to 25 nM. The BH3-mimetic obatoclax (Nguyen M et al. (2007), Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 104:19512-19517) was also tested against the SUDHL-6, SUDHL-10, and NCI-H929 cell lines. Cells were treated for 48 hours and scored for viability using the MTS assay (Promega). Growth inhibition was indicated as a percentage of control cell growth. Growth was determined by measuring the A₅₇₀ (control cells)−A₅₇₀ (treated cells)/A₅₇₀ (control cells). EC₅₀ values were calculated using Graphpad Prizm software.

Results

Cell killing by compound A is shown in FIG. 3. After 48 hours cells were assessed for viability using the MTS assay as described above. Y axis represents survival as % untreated control. The X-axis represents the concentration of the compound in log scale. Data represents mean of 3 separate wells for each condition. In the multiple myeloma cell line NCI-H929 the EC₅₀ for compound A was 1 μM for compound A (FIG. 3) and 8 μM for compound II-19 (FIG. 4 a). Compound II-19 also showed activity against the lymphoid cell line SUDHL-6 (EC₅₀=3 μM, FIG. 4 c) and the acute myelogenous leukemia cell line AML-3 (EC₅₀=10 μM, FIG. 4 b). No activity was observed in the cell line SUDHL-10 (EC₅₀=>20 μM, FIG. 4 d). This cell line is devoid of Bax and Bak activity, and is therefore not responsive to Bcl-2 family inhibition. The lack of observable activity in this assay for compound II-19 is consistent with Mcl-1 specific inhibition and suggests that this compound is not acting off-target (e.g. killing via necrotic pathways or inhibiting cell proliferation). The BH3-mimetic obatoclax (Nguyen M et al. (2007), Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 104:19512-19517) was also tested against the SUDHL-6, SUDHL-10, and NCI-H929 cell lines and showed EC₅₀ values of 2.5 uM, 0.8 uM, and 1.8 uM, respectively (see FIG. 4 e for data in SUDHL-10 and NCI-H929 cell lines). The activity in the BAX/BAK deficient cell line SUDHL-10 indicates the compound kills cells at least in part by off-target activity not involving the BCL2 pathway—similar studies have been previously reported (Vogler, M. et al. (2009), Cell Death and Differentiation 16:1030-1039). This is in contrast to the cell killing profile of compound II-19 which is disclosed herein.

These data indicate that both compounds are effective at killing tumor cells in culture and are anti-lymphoid and anti-myeloid tumor compounds.

Conclusions

Lymphoid and myeloid cells that have elevated expression of Mcl-1 tend to be resistant to certain chemotherapies. This includes multiple myeloma (MM) (Zhang B et al. (2002), Blood 99:1885-1893), non-Hodgkin's lymphomas (Cho-Vega J H et. al (2004) Hum. Pathol. 35(9):1095-100) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) (Michels J, et al. (2004), Oncogene 23:4818-4827) cells. As shown in Example 2 above, compound A and compound II-19 target Mcl-1. This example sets out to show that elevated Mcl-1 would cause hypersensitivity to compound A and II-19 under certain conditions. It is more likely that hypersensitivity will occur when the BH3-only protein, Bim, Puma or Noxa are also elevated. Both of these proteins have BH3-mediated binding to Mcl-1. Therefore these cells will be more sensitive to whichever of the BH3 mimic compound A or II-19 that have activity in disrupting Bim, Puma or Noxa BH3 mediated binding to Mcl-1.

Compounds described herein are effective in killing tumor cells that have elevated Mcl-1, and those that have elevated Mcl-1 and elevated BH3-only protein Noxa and/or Puma. The BH3 mimic compounds described herein are effective at treating chemo-resistant MM, CLL, NHL, AML, and ALL cells that display elevated Mcl-1. Compounds described herein are also effective as second line therapy in patients treated with proteosome inhibitors such as Bortezomib (Velcade®) who display elevated Mcl-1 with or without elevated Bim, Puma, or elevated Noxa.

Example 5 In Situ Mitochondrial Assay for Compound A

The on-target activity of compound A was validated. Changes in mitochondrial membrane potential were observed utilizing the potentiometric dye JC-1 (Invitrogen, Carlsbad, Calif.) a mitochondrial dye that loses its 590 emission signal when the outer membrane of the mitochondria losses its membrane potential. (Deng et al. (2007) Cancer Cell. 12(2):171-85).

The selective response of mitochondria in semi-permeabilized cell lines to the compounds was observed. The assay was performed as described in (Deng et al. (2007) Cancer Cell. 12(2):171-85).

Materials and Methods

Suspension cells were grown in RPMI and re-suspended to a 4× assay concentration of 2×10⁴/ml in assay buffer. Assay buffer; 300 mM Trehalose, 10 mM HEPES-KOH pH 7.7, 80 mM KCl, 1 mM EGTA, 1 mM EDTA, 0.1% BSA, 5 mM Succinate. Cells are mixed with JC1 and allowed to label for 10 minutes at 37° C. and then test compounds or control peptides are added in a final reaction. Final assay conditions are 2.5×10⁴ to 1×10⁵ cells/well, 0.005% digitonin, 5 mM BME, 40 μM control peptide (in control wells) or 4 to 0.25 μM test compound (in test wells), 30 μL total volume per well in Greiner 384 flat bottomed well white plates. Plates are read in Biotek, Fluorescence plate reader; 530 nm excitation; 590 nm emission. Loss of JC-1 signal emission wave length (590 nm) is represented as a percent of the non-treated (DMSO control).

Results

Response of mitochondria in semi-permeablized lymphoid cell line SUDHL-6 to compound A is shown in FIG. 5. This cell line has functioning Bax and Bax pro-apoptotic protein and is expected to respond to BH3 mediated activation. Loss of JC-1 signal emission wave length (590 nm) is represented as a percent of the non-treated (DMSO control). Lack of response to compound A in mitochondria from Bax/Bak deficient cell line SUDHL-10 is shown in FIG. 6. This cell line does not have functioning Bax and Bax pro-apoptotic protein and is not expected to respond to BH3 mediated activation. These data indicate direct activity of the compound A (ranging from 4 μM to 0.25 μM) on Mcl-1 primed mitochondria (FIG. 5), and that the Bax/Bak activity is required for activity (FIG. 6). This is consistent with the compounds acting through the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway.

Example 6 In Situ Mitochondrial Assay for Compound II-19

The on-target activity of compound II-19 was validated. Changes in mitochondrial integrity were observed utilizing anti-cytochrome c conjugated to Alexa488 (BD). When the mitochondria are intact, they retain cytochrome c and have bright, punctate staining with the antibody whereas cells with compromised mitochondrial integrity will lose cytochrome c and will not stain with the antibody. This can be observed by microscopy as well as measured by a shift in fluorescence on the FL1 channel of a flow cytometer.

The selective response of mitochondria in semi-permeabilized cell lines to the compounds was observed. The assay was adapted from (Campos et al. (2006) Cytometry Part A. 69(A):515-523).

Materials and Methods

Suspension cell lines SUDHL10 and SUDHL6 were grown in RPMI, washed once in 1×PBS and re-suspended at a concentration of 2e6/ml in assay buffer with 0.0025% Digitonin. Assay buffer; 300 mM Trehalose, 10 mM HEPES-KOH pH 7.7, 80 mM KCl, 1 mM EGTA, 1 mM EDTA, 0.1% BSA, 5 mM Succinate. Cells are incubated with test and control compounds at 10⁶ cells/treatment for 1 hour at room temperature. Samples are fixed with 4% formaldehyde in PBS for 20 minutes, washed once in PBS, and blocked with 2% FBS/0.5% TritonX-100 in PBS. Samples are re-suspended in blocking buffer with 1:250 anti-cytochrome c conjugated to Alexa488 (BD Cat#56028) for 1 hour at 4° C., washed once with blocking buffer and re-suspended in 200 ul PBS. Cytochrome c loss was measured by microscopy. At least 100 cells per treatment were counted and scored as positive for cytochrome c loss if they lacked staining. In both methods DMSO was calculated as 0% cytochrome c loss and the Bim response for DHL6 was used to determine 100% cytochrome c loss.

Results

These data indicate direct activity of the compound II-19 at 10 uM on primed mitochondria, and that the Bax/Bak activity is required for activity (compare activity in Bax/Bak-functional cell line (DHL-6) to lack of activity in Bax/Bak-deficient cell line (DHL-10) (FIG. 7). This is consistent with the activity profile of these compounds in cell studies, and indicates that the compounds exert their biological effect through the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway.

Example 7

This example demonstrates the efficacy of compounds described herein in potentiating the tumor cell killing activity of Bortezomib (Velcade®).

Proteosome inhibitors such as Bortezomib induce apoptosis and have been recognized as a class of anti-tumor therapeutics (Adams (2004) Cancer Cell 5: 417-421). Bortezomib (Velcade®) has been approved to treat A-myeloid leukemias and is in phase 3 trials for treatment of solid tumors. Bortezomib is known to dysregulate proteosome-mediated maintenance of Mcl-1 levels in the cell. Accumulated Mcl-1 in Bortezomib-treated cells has been shown to reduce cell killing and promote tumorigenesis, while reduction of Mcl-1 in cells enhances the effectiveness of Bortezomib in inducing apoptosis (Nencioni et al. (2005) Blood 105: 3255-62). Further, Bortezomib has been shown to cause elevated expression of the BH3-only protein Noxa (Qin et al. (2005) Cancer Res. 65(14): 6282-93). The combination of elevated expression of Mcl-1 and Noxa is likely to lead to a cell state previously described as BH3 “sensitization” (Letai et al. (2002) Cancer Cell. 2(3): 183-92.) and make these cells particularly responsive to Mcl-1 specific inhibition.

Materials and Methods

The experiments are performed in Jurkat cells or in primary A-myeloid leukemia cells. Cells are treated with Bortezomib alone or in combination with compound A, or II-19, or derivatives and GI₅₀ values are determined using the MTS assay as described in Example 4.

Jurkat cells are obtained from the American Type Culture Collection (ATCC) Manassas, Va. Primary AML cells are described (Milella et al. (2002) Blood 99(9): 3461-64) and can be obtained from Dr. Michael Andreeff, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Tex. Mcl-1 rabbit polyclonal anti-Human Mcl-1 IgG is available from Cell Signaling Technologies (Beverly Mass.). RPMI 1640 medium is available from GIBCO-BRL (Carlsbad, Calif.).

MTS cell viability reagents are available from Promega, (Madison, Wis.). Bortezomib (Velcade®, Millennium Pharmaceutical, Cambridge, Mass.) is available with prescription from any pharmacy.

Cells are to be planted in 96-well plates at 2×10⁴ cells/well and incubated in 200 μl RPMI with 10% fetal calf serum with antibiotics for 48 hours. Bortezomib is titrated in a 2 fold serial dilution that ranges from 5 to 320 ng/ml (5, 10, 20, 40, 80, 160, 320 ng/ml). Treated cells are allowed to incubate for 48 hours. Treated cells are then assessed for viability using the MTS assay as described in Example 4. The GI₅₀ is determined.

Combination treatment of Bortezomib and compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ is performed after the GI₅₀ of Bortezomib is established. Cells are treated with three concentrations of Bortezomib, the GI₅₀ and 2.5 and 5 fold lower concentrations. To these treated cells, the compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′ is added simultaneously in concentrations of 10, 5, 2.5, 1.25, 0.67, 0.34, 0.17, 0.08, 0.04 and 0.02 μM. Combination treated cells and cells treated with either Bortezomib alone or the BH3 mimic compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′, alone are assessed for viability following 24, 48, and 72 hours using the MTS assay protocol described in Example 4.

Further analysis of cell death is conducted using fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) analysis of annexin V positive staining with the vital dye propidium iodide by standard methods and as described in Wilkins et al. (2002) Cytometry 48(1): 14-9. Determination of enhanced killing with Bortezomib is correlated with expression levels of Mcl-1 as determined by western blotting of Bortezomib treated and non-treated cells, as well as combinations of treated cell lysates with anti-Mcl-1 antibodies (Cell Signaling Technologies, Beverly, Mass.).

Results

Treatment of cells with the Bortezomib (Velcade®) has been shown to cause elevated Mcl-1 as well as elevated Noxa in lymphoid cells (Perez-Galan et al. (Sep. 15, 2005) Blood 107:257-264; Qin et al. (2005) Cancer Res. 15: 65(14): 6282-93). This combination of elevated Mcl-1 with elevated Noxa leads to the condition described by Letai as “primed” to respond to an Mcl-1 inhibitor.

The compound or compounds among the compounds of Formula Ia′, Ib′, Ic′, or II′, that best inhibit Mcl-1 will be most effective in synergizing with Bortezomib and increasing its effective range.

Because the chemotherapeutic compounds taxol and doxorubicin mediate cell death through the activation of the tumor suppressor p53, and because Noxa is downstream of p53, it is anticipated that these treatments will also cause Mcl-1 over-expressing cells to become “primed” for Noxa mediated death when the Mcl-1/Noxa complex is disrupted, as would be the case in treating with a Mcl-1 specific BH3 mimic compound. Therefore it is anticipated that the compound(s) of Formula Ia, Ib, Ic, or II that best inhibit Mcl-1 will be most effective in synergizing with taxol or doxorubicin and increasing the effective range of these compounds in killing tumor cells in vitro. It is anticipated that this efficacy will transfer to killing of tumor cell in vivo in animal models for hematological malignancies and to therapeutic value in treating hematological malignancies in humans.

Example 8 In Vivo Activity of Compound a in a Mouse/Human Xenograft Model for Lymphoma

Compound A was tested in SCID mice at SRI International, Menlo Park, Calif. A dose escalation study determined that that the high dose of 60 mg/kg was well-tolerated and could be safely used for the xenograft study for all 3 test articles.

The T Lymphoblastic Leukemic Cell Line CCRF-CEM was purchased from American Type Culture Consortium (ATCC). These cells were maintained in RPMI-1640 medium supplemented with 10% of fetal bovine serum, 2 mM glutamine, and 1 mM sodium pyruvate. The cells were cultured at 37° C. in 95% air/5% CO₂ and 100% humidity. Medium in the culture was changed every 48 h and cells were passaged weekly.

For cell implantation to mice, cells were harvested by centrifugation. Cell pellets were resuspended in PBS and counted using a hemacytometer and Trypan Blue dye to measure the number of viable cells in the suspension. The harvested cells were washed once with PBS and resuspended in serum-free medium at a density of 1×10⁷ cells/100 μl.

Study Design

For this xenograft study, animals were divided into 4 groups of 10 mice each. Groups were treated with test compounds by IP injection at 60 mg/kg with or vehicle control.

Experimental Design for the CCRF-CEM Xenograft Study

Group # of Mice Treatment Route Regimen 1 10 Vehicle* control I.P. 5x/week 2 10 Compound A, 60 mg/kg I.P. 5x/week *Vehicle = DMSO/Cremophor/water (10:18:72)

Cell Implantation

Mice were inoculated with the CCRF-CEM cells (10,000,000 cells) were by tail vein injection. The cell suspensions had the tendency to form clumps. Therefore, during cell inoculation, the cell suspensions had to be mixed well before drawing into the syringe. Gauge 28 needles were used for the injection.

Assay Procedure

Test articles were dissolved in a mixture of DMSO/Cremophor/water (10:18:72) and administered to the animals in 100 μl aliquots 5× per week beginning 7 days after cells were transplanted into mice. Control dosage was performed under the same schedule.

Throughout the entire study, clinical observations were conducted daily for signs of leukemia development, including lethargy, ruffled fur, lack of responsiveness to stimuli, weight loss, and becoming moribund. On Day 21 after cell inoculation, blood samples were drawn from all groups. The white blood cells of all the blood samples were measured with a Nucleo Counter (ChemMetec, Denmark). The clinical observations were continued until animals either died spontaneously or sacrificed when they became moribund.

Compound Pharmacokinetics

Pharmacokinetic studies were conducted on compound A to assess plasma clearance and distribution in the mouse. Compound A was administered i.p. (as in the xenograft study) at 10 mg/kg. Compound A exhibited good stability in the mouse with plasma half-lives of 2.1 h Consistent with the excellent microsome stability, the compound exhibited low plasma clearance values 0.08 L/h/kg (compound A). These data indicate that drug levels in the xenograft studies were maintained above the IC₅₀ of the compound throughout the dosing regime.

White Blood Cell Counts in Treated and Untreated Mice

After 14 days of treatment, blood samples were taken from all the mice via orbital bleeding while mice were anesthetized using isoflurane inhalation. Approximately 100 μl of blood was taken from each mouse. The number of white blood cells was then counted by standard methods.

Results

As shown in FIG. 8, the white blood cells of mice in groups treated with compound A were significantly reduced when compared with the vehicle control group with P<0.02 (Student' “t” test).

During the first 20 days after the inoculation of 1×10⁷ CCRF-CEM cells via i.v. injection through the tail vein, none of the mice showed clinical signs of leukemia development. However, by day 22, 5 mice in the control group died. The survival outcome is shown in FIG. 9. Compound A was statistically significant in effecting survival outcome.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that compound A has biological activity and lowered white blood cell counts and ultimately effected survival outcome significantly when compared with vehicle control as shown in FIG. 9. The reduction of white blood cells was statistically significant for test article Compound A with P<0.02 (Student' “t” test) (FIG. 8). The survival outcome of mice treated with compound A was significantly improved over the non-treated animals. On Day 21, 3 mice in the vehicle control began to develop ruffled fur and became less active. On Day 22, all 5 mice died. Beginning on Day 22, mice in each group began to show abnormal clinical signs. Animals either died spontaneously with time or became moribund. The moribund mice were sacrificed humanely in a timely manner. All mice in the vehicle control group died by Day 31.60% of the mice in group treated with compound A were still alive on Day 31.

Pharmacokinetic studies were conducted on compound A to assess plasma clearance and distribution in the mouse. Compounds were administered i.p. (as in the xenograft study) at 10 mg/kg. Both compounds exhibit good stability in the mouse with plasma half-live of 2.1 h.). Consistent with the excellent microsome stability, compound A exhibited low plasma clearance values 0.08 L/h/kg. These data indicate that drug levels in the xenograft studies were maintained above the IC₅₀ of the compound throughout the dosing regime.

Oral formulations are made and tested using the Pharmatek Lab or Atories, Inc. (San Diego Calif.) Hot Rod Chemistry formulation screening kit. This kit is designed to find the correct formulation to solubilize compounds that normally have poor solubility characteristics. The kit contains eight formulations to test. Accordingly, the formulation, which imparts the best solubility, bioavailability, and stability for a lead compound is identified.

Example 9 Activity of Compound II-20 in the Fluorescence Polarization Assay Measuring Mcl-1 and Bcl-xL Inhibition

The compound II-20 was assessed for ability to inhibit binding of the BH3 peptide of Bim to Mcl-1 and Bcl-xL. The activity for blocking Bim BH3 binding to both Bcl-xL and Mcl-1 fusion proteins are measured and compared as in Example 2.

Materials and Methods

Experiments are performed using the fluorescence polarization assay as described in Example 2. Either GST-Bcl-xL or GST-Mcl-1 fusion proteins were titrated and maximum mp shift indicate binding concentrations for drug titration studies, as described in Example 2. Compound II-20, was titrated from 10 μM to 0.1 nM in 2-fold serial dilution into the peptide/protein solution. The IC₅₀ for blocking each BH3 peptide from Mcl-1 are assessed using FP, as described in Example 2.

Results

Compound II-20 with a drug concentration that provokes a response halfway between baseline and maximum (IC₅₀) of 27 nM for Mcl-1 and 122 nM for Bcl-xL. Compound II-20 has approximately a 5-fold preference for inhibition of Mcl-1 vs. Bcl-xL as seen in FIG. 10.

Example 10 Activity of Compound II-20 in Cell Viability Assays

The ability of compound II-20 to reduce cell viability of cancer cell lines was tested in SUDHL-6 and SUDHL-10 according to Example 4. Compound II-20 showed activity against the SUDHL-6 cell line (EC₅₀=9.7 μM) but not the SUDHL-10 cell line (EC₅₀>25 μM), indicating that Bax and Bak are required for cell killing activity, a mode of action consistent with Mcl-1 specific inhibition.

Example 11 Pharmacokinetics of Compound II-19 Administered i.p. in Mice.

Pharmacokinetic studies were conducted on compound II-19 to assess plasma clearance and distribution in male ICR mice. Compounds were administered i.p. (as in the xenograft study, Example 8) at 10 mg/kg. Blood samples were collected at various time points (pre-injection, 5 min, 15 min, 30 min, 1 h, 2 h, 4 h, 8 h and 24 h), and centrifuged to remove red blood cells. The plasma layer was recovered, and extracted with acetonitrile (equal volume) containing 1% formic acid. Plasma levels of drug were quantified by LC-MS (C18 column eluted with linear gradient from 0% acetonitrile, 1% formic acid to 100% acetonitrile, 1% formic acid) against a set of standards prepared by diluting a known quantity of II-19 into mouse plasma.

Results

The compound exhibits good stability in the mouse with plasma half-live >20 h (FIG. 11). The results indicate that significant levels of circulating drug can be achieved in the mouse and that these levels can be sustained for >24 h. Significantly, the levels achieved are close to or in excess of the EC₅₀ observed in several cell lines (NCI H929, AML-3) for inhibition of multiple myeloma cell viability indicating that the levels of drug are potentially high enough to have a therapeutic effect against myeloma cancer cells in vivo.

Example 12 Activity of Compound II-19 in a Mouse Human Myeloma Xenograft Model Efficacy Study

Cell Culture

Tumor cell line NCI H929 was cultured according to ATCC recommendations in RPMI8226 media containing 10% fetal bovine serum and penstrep. On the day of implantation, cells were washed 1× with phosphate buffered saline (PBS) and harvested via centrifugation. Cells were pelleted (5 min at 1000 rpm, RT) then resuspended in serum-free matrigel and kept on ice until implantation.

Tumor Cell Implantation

The cell line was implanted via subcutaneous injection on the right rear flank at a volume of 200 μl containing 3×10̂7 cells per mouse; the injection site was cleaned using alcohol before and after injection to prevent any infection.

Tumor Assessment

Beginning 1 week post cell implantation all animals were weighed and tagged and tumors were measured and body weights taken 3 times weekly (length×width×height) on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday for the duration of study. Once an average tumor volume of 100-200 mm³ was reached, animals were randomized and placed into 4 treatment groups of a minimum of 10 mice per group based on tumor size. Randomization was determined by tumor volume (length×width×height)/0.52 for all of the mice and average volume was calculated using a average function in Excel (Microsoft Professional).

Treatment

The study involved 4 groups of 10 animals per group. Animals in all dose groups were weighed on days of tumor measurement. All doses were administered i.p. at 10 mL/kg. The Bortezomib (1 mg/kg) group was once every 3 days for 15 days. The mice receiving vehicle and compound II-19 were dosed every second day. Compound II-19 was formulated in 1% DMSO, 10 mM Tris pH 8, 30% hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrin; this vehicle was used as the “vehicle” control. Bortezomib was formulated in 30% propylene glycol, 5% Tween 80, 3.3% dextrose in water, pH 4, 1% DMSO.

Results

Animals treated with both the 1 mg/kg eod and 3 mg/kg eod doses of compound II-19 exhibited a lower tumor burden than animals treated with vehicle (FIG. 12). At the end of the study, vehicle treated animals had on average a tumor size of 2300 mm³ which was reduced in the 1 mg/kg and 3 mg/kg compound II-19 treated animals to 1740 mm³ and 1600 mm³, respectively. Tumor volume in the bortezomib treated animals was also reduced compared to vehicle with an average volume of 1180 mm³. The results indicate that compound II-19 exhibits anti-tumor activity in vivo against multiple myeloma cancer cells that inhibit tumor growth and disease progression.

Example 13 Summary Structure-Activity Results for Derivatives of Compound A

In addition to compound A (see example 2), compound II-19 (see Example 3) and compound II-20 (see Example 9), compounds Ic-1, Ic-6, Ic-7, Ic-8, Ic-17, and Ic-18 were tested for their ability to inhibit MCL1 by the fluorescent polarization assay described in Example 2 and Example 3. These compounds inhibited MCL1 with IC₅₀ values of <50 μM.

EQUIVALENTS

Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain, using no more than routine experimentation, numerous equivalents to the specific embodiments described specifically herein. Such equivalents are intended to be encompassed in the scope of the following claims. 

1.-2. (canceled)
 3. A compound of Formula Ic:

or a stereoisomer, tautomer, solvate, or pharmaceutically acceptable salt, thereof, wherein: each X is independently selected from N or C to form a phenyl, pyridyl, pyrazinyl, pyrimidyl, triazinyl, or tetrazinyl moiety; L₁ and L₃ are each independently a covalent bond, or a saturated or unsaturated C₁₋₃ carbon chain, or a branched or unbranched C₁₋₃ carbon chain, wherein one or more methylene groups are optionally independently replaced by O, NR or S(O)_(m); and wherein L₁ and L₃ are optionally substituted with 0-2 oxo groups and one or more C₁₋₄ branched or unbranched alkyl optionally substituted by one or more F, Cl, Br, I, cyano, —C(O)R, C(O)NR₂, C(O)OR, OR, NR₂, SiR₃, —S(O)_(m)R, each R is independently hydrogen, or linear or cyclic C₁₋₆ alkyl, branched or unbranched C₁₋₆ alkyl, or saturated or unsaturate C₁₋₆ alkyl; each m is independently 0, 1 or 2; each R¹, R², R³, R⁴, R⁵, R⁶, R⁷, R⁸, R⁹, R¹⁰, R¹¹, R¹², R¹³, R¹⁴, R¹⁵, R¹⁶, R¹⁷, and R¹⁸ is independently F, Cl, Br, I, cyano, —C(O)R, C(O)NR₂, C(O)OR, OR, NR₂, SiR₃, —S(O)_(m)R, substituted or unsubstituted straight or branched C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, C₂₋₁₀ alkenyl, or C₂₋₁₀ alkynyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃₋₁₀ cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₅₋₈ cycloalkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₇₋₂₀ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted saturated or unsaturated 3-11 member heterocyclyl or heterocyclylalkyl containing 1, 2, 3, or 4 heteroatoms selected independently from N, O, S(O)_(m); provided that the compound of Formula Ic is not 2,2′-(3,3′-dimethoxybiphenyl-4,4′-diyl)bis(azanediyl)dibenzoic acid; and wherein at least one of R⁹, R¹⁰, R¹¹, R¹², R¹³, R¹⁴, R¹⁵, R¹⁶, R¹⁷, and R¹⁸ is C(O)OR.
 4. A compound of Formula II:

or a stereoisomer, tautomer, solvate, or pharmaceutically acceptable salt, thereof, wherein: each of R¹, R³, R⁴, R⁶, R⁷, R⁸, and R⁹ is independently selected from the groups consisting of hydrogen, hydroxyl, —(C₁-C₆)alkyl, —(C₁-C₆)alkylhydroxyl, —(C₁-C₆)alkylamino, —(C₁-C₆)alkylamide, —O(C₁-C₆)alkylhalo, —OC(O)(C₁-C₆)alkyl, halo, —C(O)R, —C(O)NR₂, and —C(O)OR. R is independently selected from the groups consisting of substituted or unsubstituted straight or branched C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, C₂₋₁₀ alkenyl, or C₂₋₁₀ alkynyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃₋₁₀ cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₅₋₈ cycloalkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₇₋₂₀ arylalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted saturated or unsaturated 3-11 member heterocyclyl or heterocyclylalkyl containing 1, 2, 3, or 4 heteroatoms selected independently from N, O, S. 5.-6. (canceled)
 7. The composition of claim 3, wherein said composition is a pharmaceutical composition comprising a compound of Formula Ic′:

or a stereoisomer, tautomer, solvate, or pharmaceutically acceptable salt, thereof, wherein: each X is independently selected from N or C to form a phenyl, pyridyl, pyrazinyl, pyrimidyl, triazinyl, or tetrazinyl moiety; L₁ and L₃ are each independently a covalent bond, or a saturated or unsaturated C₁₋₃ carbon chain, or a branched or unbranched C₁₋₃ carbon chain, wherein one or more methylene groups are optionally independently replaced by O, NR or S(O)_(m); and wherein L₁ and L₃ are optionally substituted with 0-2 oxo groups and one or more C₁₋₄ branched or unbranched alkyl optionally substituted by one or more F, Cl, Br, I, cyano, —C(O)R, C(O)NR₂, C(O)OR, OR, NR₂, SiR₃, —S(O)_(m)R, each R is independently hydrogen, or linear or cyclic C₁₋₆ alkyl, branched or unbranched C₁₋₆ alkyl, or saturated or unsaturate C₁₋₆ alkyl; each m is independently 0, 1 or 2; each R¹, R², R³, R⁴, R⁵, R⁶, R⁷, R⁸, R⁹, R¹⁰, R¹¹, R¹², R¹³, R¹⁴, R¹⁵, R¹⁶, R¹⁷, and R¹⁸ is independently F, Cl, Br, I, cyano, —C(O)R, C(O)NR₂, C(O)OR, OR, NR₂, SiR₃, —S(O)_(m)R, substituted or unsubstituted straight or branched C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, C₂₋₁₀ alkenyl, or C₂₋₁₀ alkynyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃₋₁₀ cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₅₋₈ cycloalkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₇₋₂₀ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted saturated or unsaturated 3-11 member heterocyclyl or heterocyclylalkyl containing 1, 2, 3, or 4 heteroatoms selected independently from N, O, S(O)_(m); wherein at least one of R⁹, R¹⁰, R¹¹, R¹², R¹³, R¹⁴, R¹⁵, R¹⁶, R¹⁷, and R¹⁸ is C(O)OR; and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.
 8. The composition of claim 4, wherein said composition is a compound of Formula II′:

or a stereoisomer, tautomer, solvate, or pharmaceutically acceptable salt, thereof, wherein: each of R¹, R³, R⁴, R⁶, R⁷, R⁸, and R⁹ is independently selected from the groups consisting of hydrogen, hydroxyl, —(C₁-C₆)alkyl, —(C₁-C₆)alkylhydroxyl, —(C₁-C₆)alkylamino, —(C₁-C₆)alkylamide, —O(C₁-C₆)alkylhalo, —OC(O)(C₁-C₆)alkyl, halo, —C(O)R, —C(O)NR₂, and —C(O)OR. R is independently selected from the groups consisting of substituted or unsubstituted straight or branched C₁₋₁₀ alkyl, C₂₋₁₀ alkenyl, or C₂₋₁₀ alkynyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃₋₁₀ cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₅₋₈ cycloalkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₇₋₂₀ arylalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted saturated or unsaturated 3-11 member heterocyclyl or heterocyclylalkyl containing 1, 2, 3, or 4 heteroatoms selected independently from N, O, S; and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.
 9. A method for treating a patient having cancer, said method comprising administering to said patient a pharmaceutical composition comprising one or more compounds of Formula II in amounts sufficient to inhibit growth of said cancer in said patient.
 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the cancer is a hematopoietic cancer.
 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the hematopoietic cancer is multiple myeloma, B cell lymphoma, T cell lymphomas, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, multiple myeloma, acute myelogenous leukemia, Acute lymphoblastic leukemia, Chronic myelogenous leukemia, Acute monocytic leukemia, Burkitt's lymphoma, Hodgkin's lymphomas, Non-Hodgkin's lymphomas including; Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, Follicular lymphoma, Follicular lymphoma, Mantle cell lymphoma, and Marginal zone lymphoma.
 12. The method of claim 9 wherein the patient is also administered a 26S proteosome inhibitor.
 13. The method of claim 12 wherein the 26S proteosome inhibitor is bortezomib.
 14. The method of claim 13 wherein the patient is also administered any combination of dexamethasone derivative and/or thalidomide derivative compound.
 15. The method of claim 14 wherein the thalidomide derivative is revlamid.
 16. The method of claim 9, wherein the patient is also administered a chemotherapeutic agent that increases the level of Mcl-1 in the cancer cell. 17.-21. (canceled)
 22. A composition of claim 4, wherein the composition is a pharmaceutical composition.
 23. A composition of claim 8, wherein the composition is a pharmaceutical composition. 